Teotihuacan

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Teotihuacan (pronounced [teotiwa'kan]) is an ancient Mesoamerican city located in a sub-valley of the Valley of Mexico, which is situated in the Basin of Mexico. The city is known for its large pyramidal structures, including the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon, as well as its complex, multi-family residential compounds, the Avenue of the Dead, and vibrant murals.

History[edit | edit source]

Teotihuacan was established around 100 BCE and reached its zenith between 100 and 250 CE, becoming one of the largest cities in the pre-Columbian Americas. The city's influence extended throughout Mesoamerica, evidenced by the presence of Teotihuacan-style artifacts and architecture in distant regions such as Tikal in Guatemala and Copán in Honduras.

Architecture[edit | edit source]

The city's layout is characterized by a grid pattern, with the main thoroughfare, the Avenue of the Dead, running north-south. The Pyramid of the Sun is the largest structure in Teotihuacan and one of the largest in Mesoamerica. The Pyramid of the Moon is located at the northern end of the Avenue of the Dead and is slightly smaller than the Pyramid of the Sun. Other notable structures include the Temple of the Feathered Serpent (also known as the Temple of Quetzalcoatl) and the Palace of the Jaguars.

Economy[edit | edit source]

Teotihuacan was a major economic hub, with a diverse economy that included agriculture, craft production, and trade. The city was particularly known for its production of obsidian tools and artifacts, which were traded throughout Mesoamerica.

Religion and Culture[edit | edit source]

The religion of Teotihuacan was polytheistic, with a pantheon of gods that included the Feathered Serpent (Quetzalcoatl) and the Storm God (Tlaloc). The city's art and architecture reflect its religious beliefs, with numerous murals depicting deities, rituals, and mythological scenes.

Decline[edit | edit source]

The decline of Teotihuacan began around the 6th century CE, and by the 7th century, the city had been largely abandoned. The reasons for its decline are still debated, with theories ranging from internal strife to environmental factors and external invasions.

Rediscovery and Archaeology[edit | edit source]

Teotihuacan was rediscovered by the Aztecs in the 14th century, who named it "Teotihuacan," meaning "the place where the gods were created." Modern archaeological excavations began in the early 20th century and have continued to the present day, revealing much about the city's history, culture, and influence.