Teotihuacan

The ruins of Teotihuacan are among the most important pre-Hispanic ruins in the Americas due to their masterful urban layout, the monumental architecture and the strong religious and political influence that Teotihuacan held over other cities. In addition, it is one of Mexico's most visited archaeological sites. Magnificent ceremonial, social, civic and residential structures were built around the ancient metropolis' main avenue. Among the most impressive constructions are the Piramides del Sol y Luna (Pyramids of the Sun and Moon), the Templo de Quetzalcoatl (Temple of the Plumed Serpent), the Patio de los Jaguares (Patio of the Jaguars), the Palacio de Quetzalcoatl (Palace of Quetzalcoatl) and the Palacio de la Ciudadela (Palace of the Citadel). Many of the edifices are adorned with remarkably well-preserved murals.

Not only does Teotihuacan boast one of Mesoamerica's most splendid examples of ancient architecture, but it is also a very spiritual place, according to those who continue to observe pre-Hispanic traditions. On March 21, when the spring equinox occurs, visitors descend on the site to absorb its strong energy. During your visit to Teotihuacan, you will also find an on-site museum and the Centro de Estudios Teotihuacan (Teotihuacan Research Center), which are dedicated to promoting tourist services and the study of Teotihuacan's ancient cultures.

Among the most notable constructions at Teotihuacan are:

Calzada de los Muertos (Avenue of the Dead): This main avenue cuts through the center of the archaeological site. It is 4 km (2.5 mi) long and 40 meters (132 feet) wide, stretching from the Ciudadela (Citadel) to the Plaza de la Luna (Plaza of the Moon). At the avenue's halfway point you'll see the Conjunto Plaza Oeste and a residential area, which probably was inhabited by priests in the pre-Hispanic era.

La Ciudadela (The Citadel): Located on the site's southern end. This 400-meter rectangular construction was built around 200 B.C. At this place you will see important religious structures, such as the Templo de Quetzalcoatl (Temple of the Plumed Serpent), as well as the site's main worshipping grounds and a residential area, which researchers believe was occupied by the city's ruling class.

Templo de Quetzalcoatl (Temple of the Plumed Serpent): Located in the Ciudadela (Citadel). This edifice, built in honor of Quetzalcoatl, is one of the site's most important structures. The façade features elaborate carvings of serpent heads, aquatic motifs of conches and seashells, representations of rain god Tlaloc and a plumed serpent.

Piramide del Sol (Pyramid of the Sun): Located in the center of the archaeological zone. This monument was constructed between A.D. 1 - 150 on top of a natural cave. It is 64 meters (211 feet) high and 215 meters (709 feet) wide, making it one of Mesoamerica's largest pyramids.

Plaza y Piramide de la Luna (Plaza and Pyramid of the Moon): Located north of the Calzada de los Muertos (Avenue of the Dead). Built between A.D. 1 - 150, the pyramid is 40 meters (132 feet) high and has an 1800-sq. meter (2,160-sq. yard) base. This four-sided pyramid has a huge temple and a staircase that leads to a platform and continues on to the top of the structure. In front of the imposing edifice you will see nine smaller pyramids surrounding the plaza.

Palacio de Quetzalpapalotl (Palace of Quetzalpapalotl): Located southwest of the Plaza de la Luna (Plaza of the Moon). It is believed that the high priest lived in this palace. Inside you will see the remains of bas-reliefs and murals.

Patio de los Jaguares (Patio of the Jaguars): Located southwest of the Plaza de la Luna (Plaza of the Moon), next to the Palacio de Quetzalcoatl (Palace of Quetzalcoatl). This structure was built between 450 - 650 B.C. The patio is surrounded by rooms that have jaguar figures painted on the walls. You can also see ornamentation such as conches, seashells and feathers. Archaeologists believe the scenes depict rituals to bring rain.


Source: Mexican Tourism Board