Main page Tours by the regions   Mexico   Mexico City   Xochitecatl

Xochitecatl

Xochitecatl
 photo
 photo
 photo
 photo
 photo
 photo
 photo
 photo
 photo


Description

2 km from Cacaxtla and 117 km from the capital, another archeological area is situated –Xochitecatl. In the language of tribes which inhabited its territory, area name means "the place where the flowers grow" or "the place of origin of flowers". The ancient city was built on a hill, surrounded by three volcanoes and two most important rivers of the region.

The buildings of Xochitecatl are terefed by scientists to 600 BC – 100 AD, and from 100 to 600 AD these lands were not used because of the eruption of Popocatepetl. The researchers suggest that in I-II centuries, during a volcanic eruption, the residents of Xochitecatl abandoned the city and went to Teotihuacan, as it was impossible to cultivate the land, and after a few centuries, their descendants returned to their native lands.

Thank to the figurines and other artifacts found in the area, archaeologists are almost certain that the entire complex is dedicated to Tlazolteotl, the goddess of fertility. She was considered the goddess of newborn babies and women who died in childbirth too. On the Xochitecatl territory many female figures were found – pregnant, bearing, and praying, as well as fragments of spindles and mortars.

It is believed that Xochitecatl was a ceremonial center, where the priests lived and "worked". Today, the archeological area consists of the Pyramid of Flowers, the building of Snake, Spiral building, and the basement of Volcanoes. The Pyramid of Flowers is the largest of the buildings of Xochitecatl, it is a vivid demonstration of culture sequence of tribes which inhabited the lands of here. It applies to the use of materials for the construction of the pyramid and its decorations. In the pyramid more than 30 children's graves and only one adult are located, and the rich altars were situated near them.

The residents of Xochitecatl managed different crafts, as evidenced in the knives workshop in the building of Snake, as well as sculptures and tubs that have been found within the complex.

close

Request of tour «Xochitecatl»










To fill the form is obligatory


Like it? Share with your friends!

Contact information

T. +52.55 5668 3255, +52.55 5668 3146 


e-mail: info@metmexico.com

Av. de Las Fuentes 170, Col. Jardines del Pedregal 01900 Mexico DF