Teotihuacan: Witness the Wonders of the Ancients

Heading to Teotihuacan is like stepping into a grand chapter of history, and knowing about the entrance gates and fees can make your visit smoother and more enjoyable.

Entrance Gates: Teotihuacan has several gates, but there are three main ones where visitors commonly enter:

1. Gate 1 (Puerta 1): This is the closest to the Pyramid of the Sun and often the busiest. It’s a great starting point if you want to see the largest pyramid right at the beginning of your visit.
2. Gate 2 (Puerta 2): Located near the Pyramid of the Moon, this gate is a good choice if you wish to explore this area first or if you’re interested in seeing the Plaza of the Moon and its surrounding structures.
3. Gate 3 (Puerta 3): This gate is closer to the Temple of the Feathered Serpent and the Citadel. It’s a bit less crowded compared to Gate 1, offering a more relaxed entry point to the site.

Entrance Fee:

• As of my last update, the entrance fee for Teotihuacan is approximately 85 Mexican Pesos. This fee grants you access to all the main pyramids, the Avenue of the Dead, and various smaller structures and museums within the site.
• The site is open from Tuesday to Sunday, usually from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, giving you plenty of time to explore. Keep in mind that ticket offices might close earlier than the site, so it’s wise to arrive with enough time to enjoy your visit fully.

Additional Tips:

• Free Entry Days: If you’re visiting on a Sunday, the entrance is free for Mexican citizens and residents.
• Guided Tours: Consider hiring a guide at the entrance if you’re interested in a deeper understanding of the site’s history and significance. Guides can offer insights that are not always available through signage or guidebooks.

Reach for the Sky, Touch History

The Temple of the Moon, also known as the Pyramid of the Moon, one of the central features of the ancient city of Teotihuacan, stands as a testament to the architectural and cultural achievements of its builders. This impressive structure, positioned at the northern end of the Avenue of the Dead, forms a significant part of the city’s ceremonial center and offers insights into the spiritual life of Teotihuacan.

Its construction is thought to have been completed in multiple phases, starting around 200 AD and culminating by 450 AD. The pyramid’s terraced levels are adorned with stairways and platforms that were used for various ceremonies and rituals.

Time Travel to the Age of Wonders

The Avenue of the Dead, or “Calzada de los Muertos,” is a grand central artery that runs through the heart of the ancient Mesoamerican city of Teotihuacan, located near modern-day Mexico City. Stretching over 2 kilometers in length, the Avenue of the Dead links several of Teotihuacan’s key structures, including the Pyramid of the Moon, the Pyramid of the Sun, and the Citadel, with the Temple of the Feathered Serpent.

The name ‘Avenue of the Dead’ was coined by the Aztecs who visited Teotihuacan centuries after its decline. They believed the mounds lining the avenue were tombs, hence the name. However, modern archaeological findings suggest these were residential complexes and temples. 

Beyond Time, Above the Earth

 The Pyramid of the Sun is one of the largest and most iconic ancient structures in the Americas, located in the heart of Teotihuacan. s built along the east-west axis aligned with specific astronomical events, which suggests its significant celestial purpose. It measures about 225 meters (738 feet) on each side at the base and about 65 meters (213 feet) in height, making it one of the largest pyramids in Mesoamerica. The construction of the pyramid is believed to have started around 200 CE and was completed by 225 CE, during the first phase of Teotihuacan’s urban expansion.

The pyramid likely served as an important ceremonial center within Teotihuacan. Rituals performed at the Pyramid of the Sun might have included offerings, sacrifices, and ceremonies aimed at ensuring agricultural fertility and solar worship

Ancient Wonders, Timeless Secrets

During my visit, it seems the tour felt a bit rushed, with not as many details or stories shared as I might have hoped. I missed out on some parts of the site that were less highlighted. Next time, I’ll make sure to set aside more time ensuring I can linger at each site and learn the rich, historical essence at my own pace.

Let me tell you a secret about an unforgettable experience I had during my visit to Teotihuacan. My tour group and I decided to climb one of the platforms to get a better view of the surroundings. Everything was going smoothly until the very last step. As I reached the top, excited to take in the view, my left foot got stuck in a small crevice on the final stair. In a split second, I lost my balance and tripped, tumbling awkwardly. I landed hard on my knees, feeling the sharp sting of scraped palms and wrist as I tried to catch myself. My left knee bore the brunt of the fall, ending up bruised and sore.

Step Into a Legacy of Stone

The Temple of the Feathered Serpent, also known as the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, is located at the southern end of the Avenue of the Dead, this temple stands as a significant monument, reflecting the religious, cultural, and political life of the Teotihuacan civilization.

The Temple is a step pyramid adorned with numerous stone carvings and sculptural decorations. The most striking features are the alternating representations of the Feathered Serpent deity, Quetzalcoatl, and another figure that may represent Tlaloc, the rain god, or a form of the War Serpent. 

Stand in the Shadow of History

The “Mural del Puma” in Teotihuacan is one of the many captivating murals that illustrate the artistic prowess and cultural significance of mural art within this ancient city. This particular mural, featuring the image of a puma, is a representation of the deep connection between Teotihuacan society and their natural and spiritual worlds.

It was found within the apartment compounds, a residential area in Teotihuacan that housed the city’s elite.

Photo Gallery

Visiting Teotihuacan is a journey back in time, filled with cultural discovery and views. The sense of mystery that surrounds this ancient city, combined with the awe-inspiring architecture, makes it an unforgettable destination.