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Globally, countless ancient marvels exist, making it impossible to explore them all in a single lifetime. However, to witness truly breathtaking ancient ruins, a trip across the world isn’t necessary. Mexico beckons travelers southward, revealing a remarkable collection of Mayan pyramids, Aztec temples, and pre-Columbian cities. Discover the wonders of Mexican pyramids and plan your next adventure to these historical sites.
Many are familiar with the Maya, an ancient civilization that once dominated and continues to inhabit southern Mexico and Central America. Knowledge of the Aztecs, whose metropolitan center formed the basis for modern-day Mexico City, may also be common. Prominent archaeological sites, such as Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan, stand as major draws for visitors to Mexico. However, the nation also encompasses numerous other notable civilizations and extraordinary pyramids that have contributed to its rich historical narrative.
Dr. Edwin Barnhart, director of the Maya Exploration Center and an archaeologist with over three decades of experience, notes, “While the Maya and Aztecs are widely recognized, numerous other significant cultures existed and constructed pyramids, deserving of attention.”
Let us delve into Mexico’s profound cultural legacy and explore some of the most noteworthy pyramids to visit, ranging from celebrated landmarks to concealed treasures nestled within the jungle.
Exploring Mexico’s Ancient Civilizations
Prior to embarking on our pyramid exploration, it’s crucial to understand the historical context. The Olmecs are frequently regarded as Mesoamerica’s foundational culture, flourishing from 1600 BCE to 350 BCE and pioneering the construction of significant ceremonial centers.
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Subsequently, the Maya civilization emerged, establishing settlements as early as 1500 BCE and reaching its zenith during the Classic Period (250 CE to 900 CE). Concurrently, in the southwest, the Zapotec civilization, centered in present-day Oaxaca, prospered from 700 BCE to 1521 CE. These civilizations, alongside others including the Toltecs, Mixtecs, Totonacs, and Huastecs, bequeathed imposing temples, ceremonial platforms, and pre-Hispanic pyramids.
Presently, Mexico is home to over 16 million Indigenous individuals representing 68 distinct ethnolinguistic groups, whose cultural heritage is embodied in these ancient edifices.
1. El Castillo – Chichen Itza, Yucatán
Any compilation of famous Mexican pyramids would be incomplete without El Castillo, also known as the Temple of Kukulcán. Situated at the heart of Chichen Itza, this iconic Mayan pyramid holds UNESCO World Heritage status and is recognized as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Constructed as a cosmic calendar, it features 365 steps and a dramatic solar spectacle during the spring and autumn equinoxes, where a serpent appears to descend the staircase.
Visiting El Castillo
- Location: Chichen Itza, Yucatán
- How to get there: Accessible by a 2.5-hour drive from Cancun or Riviera Maya. Numerous tour operators provide guided full-day excursions.
2. Temple of the Inscriptions – Palenque, Chiapas
Palenque, nestled within the jungle, represents one of Mexico’s most captivating yet lesser-visited Mayan archaeological sites. The Temple of the Inscriptions stands as its centerpiece, renowned for housing the tomb of the distinguished ruler Pakal.
Barnhart emphasizes the significance of Pakal’s tomb, stating, “Its discovery revolutionized our understanding of Maya royalty and burial rituals.”
Visiting Temple of the Inscriptions
- Location: Palenque, Chiapas
- How to get there: Easily reachable via the newly established Tren Maya or long-distance bus services (ADO) to Palenque town.
3. Pyramid of the Sun & Pyramid of the Moon – Teotihuacán, State of México
Located just outside Mexico City, Teotihuacan is among Mexico’s most breathtaking archaeological zones. While its origins remain a subject of debate, it once stood as one of the world’s largest metropolises. Visitors can ascend the Pyramid of the Sun for panoramic views and further explore the Avenue of the Dead and the Pyramid of the Moon.
Visiting Teotihuacán Pyramids
- Location: Teotihuacán, State of México
- How to get there: Located an hour’s drive from Mexico City. Guided day tours are also readily available.
4. Great Pyramid of Cholula – Puebla
Appearing as a hill surmounted by a Spanish church, the Great Pyramid of Cholula is, in fact, the world’s largest pyramid by volume, boasting a base even wider than the Great Pyramid of Giza. Beneath the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, layers of Aztec and pre-Aztec history are concealed.
Visiting Great Pyramid of Cholula
- Location: Cholula, Puebla
- How to get there: Situated a two-hour drive from Mexico City or 20 minutes from Puebla.
5. Pyramid of the Magician – Uxmal, Yucatán
Uxmal, celebrated for its unique architectural style, is home to the Pyramid of the Magician. Its distinctive smooth, rounded design diverges from the stepped terraces characteristic of other sites. Legend recounts its overnight construction by a mythical dwarf imbued with magic.
Visiting Pyramid of the Magician
- Location: Uxmal, Yucatán
- How to get there: A one-hour drive from Mérida. Accessible via organized tours or self-drive options.
6. Structure 2 – Calakmul, Campeche
Concealed deep within the Calakmul Biosphere Reserve, Structure 2 is a colossal pyramid rivaling the largest in the Mayan world. While it remains less frequented by tourists, those who venture to it are rewarded with an immersive jungle setting and the opportunity to scale Structure 2, recognized among Mexico’s tallest Mayan pyramids.
Visiting Structure 2 (Calakmul)
- Location: Calakmul, Campeche
- How to get there: Requires a lengthy drive through Campeche, followed by a 43-mile unpaved road. Local transport options across ejido land may be available with guides.
7. El Torre – Ek Balam, Yucatán
En route to Chichen Itza, consider a visit to Ek Balam, recognized as one of the Yucatán’s premier lesser-known pyramid sites. El Torre, the main pyramid, showcases remarkable stucco artistry and, notably, remains climbable, a rarity in contemporary times.
Barnhart describes the doorway, “Carved to resemble a monster’s mouth with figures in its eyes, it arguably represents one of the finest examples of Mayan art globally.”
Visiting El Torre (Ek Balam)
- Location: Ek Balam, Yucatán
- How to get there: Located 2 hours from Cancun and 30 minutes from Valladolid.
8. Monte Albán – Oaxaca
Overlooking Oaxaca City, the pyramids of Monte Alban blend history with stunning vistas. This site served as a significant Zapotec capital for over 1,300 years and features terraced pyramids, plazas, and expansive panoramic views.
Visiting Monte Albán
- Location: Monte Albán, Oaxaca
- How to get there: Easily accessible within 10 minutes by taxi or bus from downtown Oaxaca.
9. Pyramid of the Niches – El Tajín, Veracruz
El Tajín, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is renowned for its distinctive Pyramid of the Niches, thought to have functioned as a calendar. The site maintains a truly pristine atmosphere, with fewer visitors and an aura of mysticism.
Visiting Pyramid of the Niches (El Tajín)
- Location: El Tajín, Veracruz
- How to get there: Situated a four-hour drive from Veracruz City. Day tours are available for convenient access.