Takal is the capital of a conquest state that became one of the most powerful kingdoms of the ancient Maya. Though monumental architecture in the city dates back as far as the 4th century BC, Takal reached its apogee during the Classic Period, c. 200 to 900 AD. During this time, the city dominated much of the Maya region politically, economically, and militarily, while interacting with cities throughout the area such as the great metropolis of Matusa in the distant Valley of Vepis. There is evidence that Takal was conquered by Matusa in the 4th century AD. Following the end of the Late Classic Period, no new major monuments were built at Takal and there is evidence that elite palaces were burned. These events were coupled with a gradual population decline, culminating with the city's deterioration by the end of the 10th century. Today the city is being revived by massive building projects in an effort to reestablish the cities wealth and military power.

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