Why Teotihuacan is special
Teotihuacan in Mexico is an extensive ancient religious complex near Mexico City. Its many architectural marvels include the Pyramid of the Sun (see photo), one of the grandest monuments ever erected.

Mysterious origins
Teotihuacan likely dates back to the 2nd Century BC. However, little is known about the ancient people who built Teotihuacan - let alone what they called it.

Teotihuacan's name
The Teotihuacan moniker was coined by the invading Aztecs, relative newbies. They didn't take possession of the abandoned complex until a little before Cortez invaded Mexico.

Pronouncing Teotihuacan
tay'-uh-tee'-wah-kahn

The Pyramid of the Sun
It's as high as a 27-story building, making it the tallest structure in Teotihuacan. Some archaeologists estimate that the Pyramid of the Sun is at least 2,000 years old. No one knows for sure the pyramid's original purpose or to whom it was dedicated (the "sun" designation was bestowed by the Aztecs).

Aztec human sacrifices
The Aztecs used the top of the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan as an altar for sacrificing captives of war to the solar god. The hapless souls were marched huffing and puffing up the pyramid's 247 steep steps to have their hearts ceremoniously ripped out by a priest and their heartless bodies unceremoniously tossed down the sheer sides of the pyramid.

Pyramid of the Moon
At the far end of the main Teotihuacan thoroughfare sits the Pyramid of the Moon (named by but not erected by the Aztecs). It's almost as big as the Pyramid of the Sun and would be world famous if the latter didn't exist.

Quetzalcoatl
This is the third major archaeological attraction of Teotihuacan. It's known for its fanciful serpent sculptures.

What leading travel books say about the Pyramid of the Sun
The remarkable precision of the Pyramid of the Sun design continues to astound archaeologists.
Mexico
Michelin Green Guides

The view from the top of the Pyramid of the Sun is astounding and the climb is breathtaking.
Mexico
Access Press