Stela 64: A New Epigraphic Discovery at Copan, Honduras

Abstract

In March 2024, as part of the PROARCO II project (Nakamura et al. 2021) directed by Seiichi Nakamura, a remarkable fragment of an Early Classic stela with hieroglyphic inscription was discovered at the archaeological site of Copán, Honduras, on the western side of the platform of Structure 10L-11 (Figure 1). This monument, designated Stela 64, bears the calendrical date 9.1.10.0.0 (July 7, A.D. 465) on its front and, with the mention of Rulers 4 and 6 on the reverse, can be placed in the early dynastic history of this site. Examination of the inscription shows that the date 9.1.10.0.0 is associated with the ruler K'altuun Hix, or Ruler 4, while the stela was probably erected during the reign of Ruler 6, who is associated with the date 9.3.0.0.0 (January 31, A.D. 495) on Copán Stela 28. It can be assumed that Stela 64, with its partially retrospective text, was created in the context of this end of K'atun.