Teotihuacan: Unraveling the Mystery of an Abandoned Mesoamerican City

 Mexico is known for its rich history and ancient civilizations. Among the many archaeological sites scattered across the country, Teotihuacan stands out as one of the most impressive. This iconic city, located just 30 miles northeast of Mexico City, was once a thriving metropolis inhabited by a mysterious people who left behind a legacy that still intrigues historians and archaeologists today.

The Origins of Teotihuacan

Despite its grandeur and significance, much remains unknown about the identity of the original inhabitants of Teotihuacan. The city was already abandoned by the time the Aztecs arrived in central Mexico around 700 years ago, so there are no written records that provide clues about its founding or decline. What we do know comes from archaeological finds and interpretations.

Based on excavations and studies of murals and other artwork found within the city, some experts believe that Teotihuacan was built around 200 BCE by a group of people known as the Totonacs. Others suggest that it was founded by Olmecs, Zapotecs, or Maya; there’s even a theory that aliens from another planet created it!

Regardless of who built it, there is no doubt that Teotihuacan became one of the most powerful cities in Mesoamerica during its prime. At its peak around 500 CE, it covered more than eight square miles and had a population estimated at over 100,000 people.

Architecture and Layout

One thing that sets Teotihuacan apart from other ancient cities is its impressive urban planning. The main avenue runs for almost two miles and is flanked by monumental structures such as the Pyramid of the Sun (the third-largest pyramid in the world) and Pyramid of the Moon (which aligns perfectly with Cerro Gordo, a mountain to the north).

Other notable structures within Teotihuacan include the Temple of the Feathered Serpent (also known as the Temple of Quetzalcoatl), which features intricate carvings and reliefs depicting the deity; and the Ciudadela, a massive walled complex that likely served as both a religious and administrative center.

The Decline of Teotihuacan

Despite its impressive architectural feats, something happened to cause the downfall of this once-great city. However, there is no clear consensus among experts about what led to its abandonment around 750 CE.

Some suggest that climate change or agricultural failures caused widespread famine, leading people to leave in search of better conditions elsewhere. Others posit that internal strife or outside invasion could have contributed to its decline.

Whatever happened, it’s clear that by the time Tenochtitlan was founded in the 14th century, Teotihuacan had already been vacant for centuries.

Rediscovery and Preservation

After being abandoned for hundreds of years, Teotihuacan was rediscovered by Spanish explorers in the 16th century. However, it wasn’t until more recent times that serious efforts were made to preserve and restore this ancient site.

In 1987, Teotihuacan was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its cultural significance. Since then, multiple restoration projects have taken place aimed at preserving and protecting its fragile structures from natural wear-and-tear as well as human damage from tourism.

Today, visitors can explore Teotihuacan’s iconic pyramids and plazas while also learning about its rich history through onsite museums and interactive exhibits.

Conclusion

Teotihuacan remains one of Mexico’s most intriguing archaeological sites. Despite being abandoned for over a millennium, it continues to fascinate scholars and visitors alike with its monumental architecture and mysterious past. While much remains unknown about the identity of its original inhabitants and why they left, the legacy they left behind continues to inspire awe and admiration for their engineering, artistic and mathematical prowess.