English: Bonampak means "painted walls" and it is the highly detailed frescoes and drawings, painted on the inside of the walls and roofs of three buildings, which make Bonampak a true delight and major attraction for archaeologists and visitors alike. The frescoes are incredibly well preserved and a highlight of a visit.

This site has been hidden away in the jungle for longer than most: not until 1946 did some American explorers discover the place. A visit to this site requires accompaniment of a guide from the Lacandón Maya on whose property the site is situated.

The buildings you can see today were built under the rule of Governor Chaan Muan II, who took the throne around 770AD. It appears that Bonampak was at times ally and foe to the neighboring city of Yaxchilan and the frescoes inside the three buildings of the Templo de Pinturas (Temple of Paintings) - the first showing the consecration of the Governor's Heir; the second a battle and torture and sacrifice of captives (suggesting victory in the battle) and the third celebration with dances and headdresses predominant along with bloodletting from the tongue - an offering of thanks to the gods. Interpretations vary.

Only three people are allowed into each of the rooms at any one time because perspiration (moisture) affects the paintings in a severe way.