Acanceh

Acanceh is an ancient Maya archaeological site in the Mexican state of Yucatán, located approximately 21–25 kilometres from Mérida, the state capital [1][4]. The modern town of Acanceh sits partially atop the pre-Columbian site, with evidence of continuous occupation spanning centuries [2]. According to INAH, the Mayan city was founded in the Preclassic period (700–50 BC) and flourished during the Classic period (250–1000 AD) through commercial relations with Dzibilchaltún, Oxkintok and Mayapán [7][8]. The ancient city covered approximately 3 square kilometers and included around 300 structures [9]. Today, only three buildings at the site are accessible to visitors [5]. The name Acanceh, pronounced "Akankej," means "moan of deer" in Yucatec Maya, derived from acan (moan) and céh (deer) [3][6].