Teotihuacan’s Secrets Revealed: The Discovery of a 2,000-Year-Old Serpentine Mask

The ancient city of Teotihuacan, located northeast of modern-day Mexico City, has long captivated historians, archaeologists, and travelers. This once-thriving metropolis, flourishing between 100 BC and 700 AD, is renowned for its awe-inspiring pyramids, vast avenues, and the wealth of information it holds about the advanced civilizations that once thrived in Mesoamerica.

Recently, a remarkable discovery has shed new light on the rituals and practices surrounding one of Teotihuacan’s most iconic structures—the Pyramid of the Sun.

In an impressive archaeological exploration, researchers from Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) have uncovered a treasure trove of items that may have been placed as offerings to mark the start of construction on the Pyramid of the Sun nearly 2,000 years ago. These offerings, meticulously excavated from within the pyramid, provide a tantalizing glimpse into the beliefs and practices of the Teotihuacan people.

Among the artifacts discovered are pieces of obsidian and pottery, along with the remains of various animals. However, the most striking finds are three human figurines carved from vibrant green stone. One figurine, in particular, is noteworthy—a serpentine mask that researchers believe may represent a specific individual.

The discovery of these offerings holds immense significance for our understanding of Teotihuacan’s past. The placement of these items within the foundation of the Pyramid of the Sun suggests they were part of a dedication ceremony, marking the beginning of construction on one of the city’s most iconic structures.

Moreover, the presence of human remains, possibly sacrificial offerings, echoes similar discoveries made at the nearby Pyramid of the Moon in 2004. These findings illuminate the complex rituals and belief systems integral to Teotihuacan civilization, highlighting the pivotal role that the pyramids played in their spiritual and cultural practices.

The excavations within the Pyramid of the Sun are part of a broader effort by INAH researchers to uncover the secrets of Teotihuacan. Over the past several years, they have dug 59 holes and three short tunnels, uncovering seven human burials, some predating the construction of the pyramid itself.

These ongoing investigations promise to yield even more insights into the daily lives, beliefs, and aspirations of the Teotihuacan people, as well as their remarkable engineering and architectural feats. Each new discovery deepens our understanding of this captivating ancient civilization and its enduring legacy.

The offerings uncovered at the base of the Pyramid of the Sun stand as a testament to the rich cultural and spiritual traditions of the Teotihuacan people. These artifacts, carefully placed to mark the beginning of one of the city’s most iconic structures, offer a tangible connection to the beliefs and practices that shaped the lives of those who once inhabited this ancient metropolis. As researchers continue to explore the secrets of Teotihuacan, the world gains a deeper appreciation for the ingenuity, complexity, and enduring significance of this remarkable ancient civilization.