The Pyramids of Teotihuacan

The pyramids of Teotihuacan are among the largest in Mesoamerica. They are beautifully preserved and a sight to behold. Teotihuacan is only a couple of hours from Mexico City, and deserves at least a full day to explore it.

Mexico - Teotihuacan - The Pyramid of the Sun to the right and the Pyramid of the Moon in the distance
The Pyramid of the Sun to the right and the Pyramid of the Moon in the distance

Opposite the entrance to the site is the Temple of Quetzalcoatl. Turning left, the Pyramid of the Moon is at the end of the Avenue of the Dead. Walking down the avenue, the Pyramid of the Sun is to the right. From the main entrance gate to the Pyramid of the Moon and back is approximately five kilometres.

Mexico - Teotihuacan - Along the Avenue of the dead and back towards the entrance
Along the Avenue of the Dead and back towards the entrance

History

In the 15th century, the Aztecs incorporated the ancient ruined city of Teotihuacan into their empire. It had thrived a thousand years before, and at that time was one of the largest cities in the world.

The Temple of Quetzalcoatl

From the main entrance it’s a short walk to The Temple of Quetzalcoatl. Several Mesoamerican civilisations going as far back as the Olmecs (3000 years ago) revered the deity, Quetzalcoatl, also known as the Feathered Serpent.

Mexico - A serpent's head at the entrance to Teotihuacan
A Serpent’s Head at the entrance to Teotihuacan
Mexico - Teotihuacan - Serpents' heads adorning the pyramid
Feathered Serpents’ heads adorn The Temple of Quetzalcoatl (to the right)

The Pyramid of the Sun

The Pyramid of the Sun is the largest structure at Teotihuacan and one of the largest pyramids in the world. As you approach it from the side, it engulfs your vision. It is nothing short of spectacular.

Mexico - Teotihuacan - Glimpsing out towards the Pyramid of the Sun
Glimpsing out towards the Pyramid of the Sun from the grounds beside the Temple of Quetzalcoatl
Mexico - Teotihuacan - The Pyramid of the Sun
The Pyramid of the Sun in its magnificence
Mexico - Teotihuacan - The way up the Pyramid of the Sun
The way up the Pyramid of the Sun

The Pyramid of the Moon

Teotihuacan is one of the few ancient sites where having plenty of other visitors adds to the atmosphere, especially when walking the Avenue of the Dead towards the Pyramid of the Moon. The walk itself is a ritual.

Mexico - Teotihuacan - The Avenue of the Dead leading to the Pyramid of the Moon
The Avenue of the Dead leading to the Pyramid of the Moon
Mexico - Teotihuacan - The Pyramid of the Moon
The Pyramid of the Moon
Mexico - Teotihuacan - Looking across Moon Square and across towards the Pyramid of the Sun
Looking across Moon Square and towards the Pyramid of the Sun

The Palace of Quetzalpapalotl

The Palace of Quetzalpapalotl lies off Moon Square. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the fully restored section of the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl was not accessible. However, the rear section of the palace was open.

Mexico - Teotihuacan - the rear of the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl
The rear of the Palace of Quetzalpapalotl

Next Post: Xochicalco

Mount Fuji looking active!

Faraway Journeys

Sign up to receive photos and information on a new destination each week.

We don’t spam! Read our privacy policy for more info.

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *