TRAVEL/PHOTOGRAPHY/CULTURE
Unearthing the Secrets of Mexico’s Magnificent Pre-Colombian City, Teotihuacan
A photo essay
“Traveling to Mexico is like stepping back in time, to a place where ancient cultures and traditions still thrive.” — Rick Bayless
Mexico City is a vibrant metropolis, teeming with culture, history, and architectural wonders.
During our April 2023 visit, my husband and I had the incredible opportunity to explore the captivating archaeological site of Teotihuacan. We had previously visited the city’s main attractions on a different trip, so we were excited to learn even more about Mexico’s rich pre-Columbian heritage.
Teotihuacan is an ancient Mesoamerican city located about 30 miles (50 km) northeast of present-day Mexico City. The city received the prestigious designation of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987.
Per UNESCO:
“The holy city of Teotihuacan (‘the place where the gods were created’) is situated some 50 km north-east of Mexico City. Built between the 1st and 7th centuries A.D., it is characterized by the vast size of its monuments — in particular, the Temple of Quetzalcoatl and the Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, laid out on geometric and symbolic principles. As one of the most powerful cultural centres in Mesoamerica, Teotihuacan extended its cultural and artistic influence throughout the region, and even beyond.”
Teotihuacán was once one of the largest cities in central Mexico and one of the largest in the world.
One of the most remarkable features of this place are the two impressive structures — the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. These two structures are highly regarded for their architectural significance as Mesoamerican pyramids built during this era.
In fact, the Pyramid of the Sun is currently ranked as the third-largest pyramid in the world.
I will share our experiences and offer some valuable tips to make the most of your own Teotihuacan expedition.
Please enjoy these photos I clicked of the amazing pyramids of Teotihuacan.
✅The Value of a Guide
Hiring a private tour guide was a great choice that really made our experience at Teotihuacan even better.
Our tour guide was an older Mexican gentleman, who was so knowledgeable and passionate about the history of his country.
His stories and expertise added a special touch to our visit, giving us a deeper understanding of the importance of this ancient city. I definitely suggest getting a guide to get a unique and insightful perspective that you can’t find in guidebooks alone.
✅ Arrive early
Arriving early at Teotihuacan is highly recommended in order to fully experience the beauty of the site. We arrived around 8:30 am and were able to enjoy the park without the crowds and intense heat that comes later in the day.
This allowed us to explore at our own pace, take great photos, and soak in the unique atmosphere without being surrounded by too many people.
Plan for a 1.5–2 hour drive from Mexico City to ensure you beat the crowds and make the most of your visit.
✅ Dress and Preparation
Given the vast size of Teotihuacan and the need to climb the pyramids, it’s important to dress comfortably and be prepared. Weather can change, so wearing lightweight, breathable clothing and sturdy walking shoes is recommended.
Be prepared to climb lots and lots of steps and do a fair amount of walking at Teotihuacan.
Remember to protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and a hat. Staying hydrated is crucial, so bringing a refillable water bottle is highly recommended.
✅ Unveiling Teotihuacan’s Wonders
Teotihuacan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Mexico City, left us in awe. The towering Pyramid of the Sun, standing at 60 meters, greets visitors upon arrival.
As we wandered, we admired temples, a spacious courtyard, and the impressive Pyramid of the Moon. The Avenue of the Dead, flanked by temples, revealed the city’s rich history.
Exploring the palace, we glimpsed the ancient site’s grandeur through its restored remnants.
✅ The Pyramids
The Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan stands at 75 meters tall. It was meticulously positioned to align with significant dates and the sun’s trajectory.
The Aztecs, discovering the abandoned city, bestowed upon it the name “Pyramid of the Sun.”
✅ Tips for a Memorable Visit
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and capture stunning photos.
- Wear sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes.
- Stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle.
- Bring some pesos to purchase souvenirs from the on-site vendors and don’t hesitate to haggle.
- Prioritize rest the night before to be prepared for the walking and climbing involved.
History of Teotihuacan
Teotihuacan is a fascinating ancient wonder with a rich and mysterious history from around 400 B.C. It was once a flourishing civilization known as “the place where the gods were created.”
At its peak in the 6th century A.D., Teotihuacan was the largest city in the Americas, bustling with an estimated population of 125,000 to 200,000 people. The city’s well-planned layout showcased the organizational skills of its architects.
However, despite its achievements, Teotihuacan experienced a decline around 650 A.D. The reasons behind this remain a mystery.
The builders of Teotihuacan are still debated among scholars, with theories pointing to various cultures like the Toltecs, Totonacs, Mayans, Mixtecs, and Zapotecs.
The city was known for its diverse religious practices, strongly focusing on polytheistic worship and ritualistic sacrifices.
Trade played a significant role in Teotihuacan’s prosperity, with the city’s monopoly on obsidian tools and ceramics boosting its economic power in Mesoamerica.
The decline of Teotihuacan by 750 A.D. marked the end of an era, leaving behind silent ruins that stand as a reminder of the city’s past glory.
Even after thousands of years, Teotihuacan intrigues scholars and explorers, holding onto its secrets as a symbol of human resilience and ambition.
Closing Thoughts
Visiting Teotihuacan is a fascinating experience that provides a unique look into ancient culture. The impressive pyramids and historical value of this site, located near Mexico City, make it a wonderful destination to explore.
Website: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/414
References
- https://www.history.com/topics/ancient-americas/teotihuacan
- https://destinationlesstravel.com/teotihuacan-mexico/
- https://mexicotravel.blog/visiting-teotihuacan-mexico-city-pyramids/
- https://smarthistory.org/teotihuacan-2/
What are your favorite pyramids to visit around the world? Please share in the comments.
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