As the first rays of dawn crept over the horizon, we found ourselves standing in the heart of a place where giants once walked. Teotihuacan, the ancient “City of the Gods,” revealed itself to us in all its mysterious glory during a private early morning tour before the crowds arrived.
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Stepping through the arched entrance known as the Gate of the Dead, we were immediately transported back in time over a millennium. The sprawling avenue of the Dead stretched out before us, lined with crumbling pyramids and monuments that defied modern explanation. Who were the master builders that erected these colossal structures so long ago?
We stood in awe of the Pyramid of the Sun (above), the tallest structure at Teotihuacán and the third tallest pyramid in the world, as hundreds of hot air balloons filled the skies around us. The Pyramid of the Sun represents the city’s cosmological and religious importance. It was likely used for ceremonial purposes and symbolized the city’s connection to the heavens.
We began walking down the Avenue of the Dead, which functioned as the main thoroughfare and played a crucial role in the city’s layout and ceremonial activities, serving as a focal point for public gatherings and processions. Together, these structures showcase the architectural and spiritual achievements of the ancient Teotihuacan civilization. The Pyramid of the Moon stood facing its solar counterpart across the expansive plaza below. A profound silence surrounded us, broken only by the morning winds whispering secrets of the ancient past.
We continued to the museum of Teotihuacan. The museum features a diverse collection of artifacts, including pottery, stone carvings, and murals, providing a comprehensive overview of the city’s cultural and artistic achievements. Visitors can also learn about the historical and anthropological aspects of Teotihuacan, gaining a deeper understanding of the daily lives, religious practices, and societal structures of its inhabitants. The museum’s exhibits offer a captivating experience that enriches the exploration of the archaeological site itself.
Our final stop of the tour, as other guests were beginning to arrive was the Pyramid of the Feathered Serpent (above), the only pyramid guests are currently able to climb in the site. Climbing the Pyramid of the Feathered Serpent was an awe-inspiring experience. As we ascended the structure, the intricate stone carvings depicting feathered serpents and the surrounding landscape unfolded beneath us, offering a glimpse into the religious beliefs and artistic prowess of the ancient Teotihuacan civilization. At the summit, the panoramic views of the archaeological site and the Avenue of the Dead rewarded us with a breathtaking perspective of this ancient city’s grandeur.
Who were these people? What fueled their desire to construct such staggering monuments? Though their civilization remains largely mysterious, strolling the same streets and plazas they once inhabited connected us to their indomitable spirit.
Leaving the ancient city that morning, I couldn’t help but feel reinvigorated about the possibilities that await anyone daring enough to walk the path of the road less traveled. Teotihuacan’s founders dreamed bigger than anyone could have imagined. What dreams might we make reality simply by rising before the crowds and seizing the day?
If you are planning a trip to Mexico City, a tour to Teotihuacán is a must-do. A lot of the group tours I found had mixed reviews, so I decided to book a private tour, which ended up changing the course of our whole trip, as we met our wonderful guide Laila. You can book your private tour of Teotihuacan on Viator.
Thanks for stopping by! Check out our Go See Do Explore Podcast, available wherever you listen to podcasts. To read more about this trip, check out the Uncovering Mexico City Trip Report. To read about some of our previous trips, visit my Trips Page. If you like my photos be sure to “like” my Facebook Page and follow me on Instagram! For my list of gadgets to make your travels easier, click here. To see inside my camera bag, check out my Gear Page.
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