Exploring Divinity on Earth: Premier Archaeological Spots to Discover in Mexico City
In the heart of Mexico City, a rich tapestry of history unfolds, with ancient sites that tell tales of civilisations long past. Let's embark on a journey through time, beginning with the oldest site in central Mexico: Cuicuilco.
Cuicuilco, home to the first ceremonial center of the Valley of Mexico, was the dwelling place of the Cuicuilca people during the Middle Preclassic period. Today, it stands as a national natural reserve, offering a glimpse into the past for modern-day visitors.
As we move forward in time, we arrive at Tlatelolco, a site of great significance during the 14th century. Known for hosting the greatest marketplace in Mesoamerica, Tlatelolco was also the scene of fierce battles. Dozens of human remains, believed to be warriors who fought the Spaniards upon their arrival, have been uncovered here.
The Tlatelolco archaeological site, located in the heart of Plaza de las Tres Culturas in Cuauhtémoc, provided Mexico-Tenochtitlan with the goods its population needed. During the construction of the subway's Line 2 in 1967, the Ehecatl's Shrine was discovered. This small archaeological site, dedicated to Ehecatl, the wind incarnation of Quetzalcóatl, is considered the smallest in Mexico.
The Ehecatl's Shrine and the Adoratorio a Ehécatl, located near Metro Pino Suárez in Mexico City's Centro Histórico, Cuauhtémoc, are testaments to the religious practices of the past. Most of the stone used for these temples was repurposed for building the Mexico City Metropolitan Cathedral in the present-day Zócalo after the Spanish invasion.
Moving on from Tlatelolco, we find ourselves in Mixcoac, originally founded on the shores of Lake Texcoco. During the 15th century, Mixcoac became an important religious and devotional site for the Mexica of the Triple Alliance. Remains show that Mixcoac was a place of celebration and worship, where the Tepanecs invited the inhabitants of Tenochtitlán and Tlatelolco to enjoy displays of dance and music. Today, the pyramid dedicated to Mixcoatl can be visited by tourists in Mixcoac.
Lastly, we reach the Templo Mayor archaeological site, located in Mexico City's Centro Histórico, designed by Pedro Ramírez Vázquez. Originally, two pyramids stood at this site, one dedicated to Huitzilopochtli, the God of War, and the other to Tláloc, the God of Water. Today, only the remains of these structures remain, offering a poignant reminder of the city's ancient past.
Each of these sites offers a unique glimpse into Mexico's rich history, providing a tangible connection to civilisations long gone. Whether you're a history buff or simply someone looking to explore the city's past, these archaeological sites are a must-visit.
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