Archaelogical Sites

Apart from some archeological zones in the surrounding areas where traces of the pre Hispanic civilization have been found, there are three essential archeological sites in Mexico City: The Templo Mayor (the Main Temple) is a series of pyramidal constructions built one over the other, where the monolith of the Mexica goddess, Coyolxauhqui, was found. The Plaza de las Tres Culturas (The Plaza of the Three Cultures) in Tlatelolco shows three very important facets of Mexican architecture: the pre Hispanic, the colonial and the modern. The pyramid at Cuicuilco in the south of the city is a curious circular construction half hidden by the lava the Xitle volcano spewed forth more than three thousand years ago.

 Cuicuilco

 Cuicuilco is located at the crossing of the Periférico (the Ring Road) and Insurgentes Avenue is one of the most important ceremonial centers on the Anáhuac plateau. It reached its peak 2,600 years ago when a 25-meter circular pyramid was constructed; however, the lava flowing from the Ixtle volcano buried part of the ruins prior to the arrival of the Spaniards.

 Great Temple

 This combination of patios, superimposed remains of pyramids and staircases reveals fascinating architectural and historical aspects of the ceremonial and religious life of the ancient Mexico. The monolith of the goddess Coyolxauhqui was found here.

  Museum of Anthropology

 This museum houses the most important collection of archaeological pieces in the country, displayed in 11 exhibition halls showing the richness of Mexico’s pre-Hispanic past.