INAH Restores Ancient Maya Structure Damaged by Tropical Storm Alberto
Experts from Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) have successfully restored an architectural feature over 1,000 years old at the Comalcalco Archaeological Zone in Tabasco. This element, known as Structure 5, suffered damage in June 2024 when Tropical Storm Alberto unleashed heavy rainfall, resulting in its collapse into six pieces. The restoration process, which took place from August to December 2025, aimed to reassemble the fragments and ensure the stability of its materials for future preservation. Standing at 66 centimeters tall, Structure 5 is a decorative component of Temple V within the Great Acropolis, an area that remains off-limits to visitors.
Key facts
- Structure 5 is a stuccoed architectural sculpture from the Yokot'an Maya (Chontal Maya) tradition.
- It was damaged by Tropical Storm Alberto in June 2024.
- The piece fell and broke into six fragments.
- Restoration was conducted by INAH specialists from August to December 2025.
- The work included reassembly and material stabilization.
- Structure 5 is located at Temple V of the Great Acropolis, Comalcalco Archaeological Zone, Tabasco.
- The Great Acropolis area is closed to the public.
- The element measures 66 centimeters high.
Entities
Institutions
- National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH)
Locations
- Comalcalco Archaeological Zone
- Tabasco
- Mexico