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DATING OF STRUCTURE XIX

The hieroglyphic text of the stucco relief, the architectural style, and the ceramic evidence suggest that Structure XIX was probably built and used some time during the life of K'inich Ahkal Mo' Nab III (referred to in earlier literature as Akul Anab III or Chaacal III). The accession date for K'inich Ahkal Mo' Nab III is in 721 A.D. But the length of his rein as king of Palenque is still unknown, and the name of K'inich Ahkal Mo' Nab III does not appear on the hieroglyphic text on the stucco panel found in structure XIX.

Instead, the name or title U Pakal K'inich (Shield of the Sun God) is mentioned. This may be the same U Pacal K'inich mentioned on a looted mask, probably from Copan, but with a Palenque Emblem glyph. Thus it is possible that a later, formerly unknown king, possibly named U Pakal K'inich, commissioned the construction of structure XIX. Hopefully, further excavations will answer this question definitively.

Click here for a genealogy of the rulers at Palenque.