Teotihuacan, Mexico

Teotihuacan is an ancient city located in the State of Mexico. In Nahuatl Aztec, Teotihuacan means the “birthplace of the gods.” Originally, the city covered around 10 square miles; however, the present site only extends to about 1 square mile.

The origin of Teotihuacan is clouded in mystery. One of the more popular theories is that Teotihuacan was built by the Toltecs or the Totonacs. The city’s rise to power came in 150 AD, where it became a cultural power in the ancient world. It was a strong influence in the Maya culture, and produced numerous obsidian relics. The fall of the city occurred between the 7th and 8th century, when the city was burned either due to invaders or a civil conflict.

Teotihuacan is composed of a mixture of ethnicities, namely Zapotex, Maya, Nahua and Mixtec. Religion also played a major role in the city. Living sacrifice was also practiced, the sacrifices being enemy warriors and animals.

The main road is known as the Calzada de los Muertos, or the Avenue of the Dead. The avenue received its name from the surrounding talud-tablero platforms, which were previously thought of as tombs. The avenue connects everything in the site.

Teotihuacan is the location of the world’s third largest pyramid, the Piramide del Sol, or the Pyramid of the Sun. The other prominent pyramid is the Piramide de la Luna, or the Pyramid of the Moon. Both pyramids are believed to harbor great mystical energy, and are favorite places for meditation.

The Citadel, or La Ciudadela, contains several structures, such as pyramids and temples. The prominent Temple of Quetzalcoatl was believed to be the house of the city’s ruler. There are other structures in Teotihuacan, such as the Palace of the Jaguars, Palacio de Tepantitla and Palacio de Quetzapapalotl.

Teotihuacan is open from Tuesday to Sunday, 9am to 5pm. It is advisable to go to the site early, as the Avenue of the Dead can get packed with visitors at peak hours.