Teotihuacan: A glimpse into ancient Aztec civilization

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - FEBRUARY 25: Situated approximately 50 km (30 miles) northeast of Mexico City lies the awe-inspiring ancient city of Teotihuacan, often referred to as “the place where the gods were created.” Built between the 1st and 7th centuries A.D., this UNESCO World Heritage Site stands as a testament to the rich cultural and architectural legacy of Mesoamerica. At the heart of Teotihuacan are its monumental structures, including the iconic Pyramids of the Sun and the Moon, the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, and the Ciudadela, each laid out with meticulous geometric and symbolic precision. These imposing edifices, along with approximately 2,000 single-story apartment compounds, plazas, temples, and palaces, reflect the city's status as one of the most influential cultural centers in the region. Teotihuacan's significance extends beyond its architectural grandeur. It served as a hub of cultural and artistic exchange, influencing neighboring civilizations and even distant cultures. The city's name itself, derived from the Nahuatl language, speaks to its mythical origins as “the place where the gods were born.” The origins of Teotihuacan remain shrouded in mystery, with scholars offering various theories. While some attribute its construction to the Toltec civilization or the Totonacs, others suggest a more complex narrative involving waves of immigrants drawn to the valley following a volcanic eruption. Regardless of its origins, Teotihuacan reached its zenith around 300 A.D., boasting a population estimated at 200,000 inhabitants. (Footage by Çağrı Korucu/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)