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Why
Teotihuacan is special
Teotihuacan in Mexico is an extensive ancient religious complex
near Mexico City. Its many architectural marvels include the
Pyramid of the Sun (see photo), one of the grandest monuments
ever erected.
Mysterious origins
Teotihuacan likely dates back to the 2nd Century BC. However,
little is known about the ancient people who built Teotihuacan -
let alone what they called it.
Teotihuacan's name
The Teotihuacan moniker was coined by the invading Aztecs,
relative newbies. They didn't take possession of the abandoned
complex until a little before Cortez invaded Mexico.
Pronouncing Teotihuacan
tay'-uh-tee'-wah-kahn
The Pyramid of the Sun
It's as high as a 27-story building, making it the tallest
structure in Teotihuacan. Some archaeologists estimate that the
Pyramid of the Sun is at least 2,000 years old. No one knows for
sure the pyramid's original purpose or to whom it was dedicated
(the "sun" designation was bestowed by the Aztecs).
Aztec human sacrifices
The Aztecs used the top of the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan
as an altar for sacrificing captives of war to the solar god.
The hapless souls were marched huffing and puffing up the
pyramid's 247 steep steps to have their hearts ceremoniously
ripped out by a priest and their heartless bodies
unceremoniously tossed down the sheer sides of the pyramid.
Pyramid of the Moon
At the far end of the main Teotihuacan thoroughfare sits the
Pyramid of the Moon (named by but not erected by the Aztecs).
It's almost as big as the Pyramid of the Sun and would be world
famous if the latter didn't exist.
Quetzalcoatl
This is the third major archaeological attraction of Teotihuacan.
It's known for its fanciful serpent sculptures.
What leading travel books say about the Pyramid of the Sun
The remarkable precision of the Pyramid of the Sun design
continues to astound archaeologists.
Mexico
Michelin Green Guides
The view from the top of the Pyramid of the Sun is astounding
and the climb is breathtaking.
Mexico
Access Press
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