The modern town of Acanceh is partially atop the pre-Columbian site, and occupation seems to have been continuous.

The population of Acanceh, about 11,000 people, is mostly Maya, with the Mayan language predominantly spoken,[2] although basic Spanish is generally understood.

Acanceh was founded sometime between 300 and 500 AD, during the Early Classic period, possibly by the Itzaes in their first migration from the east to the west of the Yucatán peninsula, having come from the lake area of Bacalar and having founded Chichen Itzá, Izamal and T'Hó (currently Mérida.

[3]) In more recent times, before the arrival of the Spaniards, Acanceh was located within the jurisdiction (Kuchkabal) of the chakanes.

The architecture of the structures at Acanceh show a Teotihuacano influence, leading some to believe it was a "colony" of Teotihuacan.