Façade Motif of Temple 26

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Located atop the Hieroglyphic Stairway, Temple 26 disintegrated completely by the 19th century when the stairway was unearthed. Thorough excavation and sculpture examination have greatly enhanced understanding of the themes showcased on this Late Classic edifice. It was constructed in response to the demise of the 13th ruler, Waxaklajun Ubaah K'awiil, who fell in battle at the hands of neighboring Quirigua forces. The structure as a whole honors pivotal events in Copan's dynastic history.