The Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan, Mexico, stands as a monumental testament to ancient Mesoamerican ingenuity and mystery. Erected around 100 CE, this colossal structure is not only one of the largest pyramids in Mexico but also one of the most imposing in the entire Western Hemisphere. Rising an impressive 216 feet (66 meters) above the surrounding landscape, with a base spanning approximately 720 by 760 feet (220 by 230 meters), the Pyramid of the Sun dominates the skyline and draws visitors into the heart of the ancient city of Teotihuacan.
Pyramid of the Sun, Teotihuacan, Mexico, showcasing its grandeur and scale within the ancient city.
Dominating the Avenue of the Dead from its eastern flank, the Pyramid of the Sun is strategically positioned as the centerpiece of Teotihuacan. This ancient metropolis, once a thriving urban center, is meticulously organized around the Avenue of the Dead, the city’s principal north-south axis. The pyramid’s construction is a feat of engineering, utilizing an estimated 1,000,000 cubic yards (765,000 cubic meters) of materials. Local tezontle, a distinctive red volcanic rock, was hewed and incorporated into the pyramid’s robust structure. It’s important to note that early 20th-century restoration efforts, conducted between 1905 and 1910 under architect Leopoldo Batres, were somewhat controversial. A fifth terrace was added somewhat arbitrarily, and unfortunately, many of the original facing stones were removed during this process. Visitors today can ascend the pyramid via 248 uneven steps located on its western face, leading to the summit and panoramic views of the Teotihuacan valley.
Despite its imposing presence, much about the Pyramid of the Sun and its builders remains shrouded in mystery. The identity of the Teotihuacans themselves is still debated, and the precise purpose of the pyramid is largely a matter of archaeological conjecture. While it is widely believed that a temple once crowned the pyramid’s summit, subsequent explorations have unveiled further secrets hidden beneath the surface. Beginning in the early 1970s, investigations into the pyramid’s substructure revealed a complex network of caves and tunnel chambers. These subterranean discoveries expanded in later years, with tunnels being found throughout Teotihuacan, indicating a sophisticated understanding of underground space by its ancient inhabitants. Further excavations in 2011 at the pyramid’s core brought to light a significant cache of artifacts. Archaeologists unearthed fragments of clay pottery, obsidian pieces, animal bones, three finely crafted greenstone human figurines, and a striking greenstone mask. Adding to the intrigue, evidence of what appear to be three earlier constructions were also found buried within the pyramid’s structure, suggesting layers of building and rebuilding over time. In 2013, another remarkable discovery was announced: a covered pit beneath the platform at the pyramid’s peak. Inside this pit, researchers found two pillars and a representation of the Mesoamerican deity Huehueteotl, an ancient fire god venerated across various cultures in the region.
The Pyramid of the Sun continues to fascinate and inspire awe. Its sheer scale, architectural complexity, and the ongoing archaeological discoveries at Teotihuacan underscore its importance as a major pre-Columbian site in Mexico. While the full story of its creation and purpose may remain partially elusive, the Pyramid of the Sun firmly holds its place as a powerful symbol of Teotihuacan’s rich past and a must-see destination for anyone exploring Mexican history and culture.
