One of the most fascinating ancient Maya city-states is Yaxchilán, on the border of Mexico and Guatemala. This remote archaeological site is famous for its incredible art and architecture—especially its intricately carved lintels!

But what exactly is a lintel? And why are the lintels of Yaxchilán so important?

In this video, we focus on Lintel 25 from Structure 23, which features Lady K’abal Xook (sometimes spelled Xoc), and uncover how these architectural elements served as more than just structural supports—they were powerful records of Maya history and rulers.

Main object:

Lintel 25 showing Lady Xook, Maya, c. 681 CE, Classic Period, limestone, from Structure 23, Yaxchilán, Chiapas, Mexico. The British Museum

CHAPTERS

0:00 Introduction to lintels at Yaxchilán

0:35 Defining lintel

0:55 More about lintels at Yaxchilán

1:13 Lintel 25 of Lady Xook from Structure 23

1:45 Viewing carved lintels at Yaxchilán

1:58 Ways of recording history and power