Casa K’inich Museum (Museo Casa K’inich)
Interactive exhibits invite kids into the world of the ancient Maya at this small, nonprofit museum in Copan Ruinas. Clothing and musical instruments are on display here, alongside history that covers both daily life and elite rituals in Maya cities. Information in Spanish, English, and Mayan helps to illustrate those fascinating stories.
The basics
Set in the whitewashed Fuerte Cabañas building, a historic landmark that was once a barracks, the Casa K’inich Museum is designed to make Maya culture accessible to both children and adults. This is a great place to visit before or after a trip to the Ruins of Copan, as exhibits supply context that’s missing from the larger site. Don’t miss the chance to climb the building’s tower, which has great views across the town of Copan Ruinas.
Things to know before you go
- Hours can vary, so it’s worth calling the museum before making the trip.
- Bring a camera for fun photo opportunities such as a Maya stela with a head-sized cutout.
- The museum is not just for kids. Exhibits on Maya history offer a good intro that’s helpful for adults, as well.
How to get there
The museum is located on Calle 18 Conejo in Copan Ruinas, five blocks north of the central square, or Parque Central. Taxis and motorcycle taxis are available throughout the town, and generally offer fixed rates. It’s a good idea to agree on a price prior to departure.
When to get there
Casa K’inich Museum is open Monday through Saturday, though the schedule is prone to change. When the museum is open, however, it generally closes for an hour at lunch time. Updated information about the museum hours is available at most guest houses or via the site’s Facebook page.
Other museums in Copan Ruinas
Keep exploring the ancient Maya world at the impressive Sculpture Museum, which holds many of the artifacts unearthed at the Maya Ruins of Copan. Included in the price is admission to the Museo de Arqueologia, an archeology museum located on the town’s Parque Central. Here, find an exhibit showing the ritual burial of a female shaman among other fascinating exhibits.
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