Researchers from the National Insтιтute of Anthropology and History (INAH) have unearthed a Teotihuacano village in the Tlatelolco area of Mexico City.
Teōtīhuacān, known as the “birthplace of the gods” by the Aztecs, flourished between 150 BCE and 650 CE. Credit: Jorge Acre
This discovery provides remarkable insights into the lifestyle and culture of the ancient Teotihuacán civilization, which thrived during the Classic Period, particularly during the Late Xolalpan–Metepec phases, between the 5th and 7th centuries CE.
At its peak, the city of Teotihuacán was one of the most influential urban centers in Mesoamerica, with a population estimated at around 125,000 inhabitants. It encompᴀssed over 2,000 structures spread across 18 square kilometers.
Although the site was first identified in the 1960s by archaeologist Francisco González Rul, recent excavations have greatly expanded our understanding of its historical significance.
The newly investigated Teotihuacano settlement features architectural remains, including stone alignments, post holes, and three human burials accompanied by funerary offerings. Evidence suggests the village served as a center for the production of high-quality ceramics and artisanal objects, reflecting the technological sophistication of its inhabitants.
The excavation, currently led by archaeologists Juan Carlos Campos Varela and Mara Abigail Becerra Amezcua, has also uncovered a wealth of artifacts, including figurines, greenstone tools, obsidian and flint projectile points, and other materials ᴀssociated with craft production.
Although located in a rural setting, the village likely maintained economic and cultural connections with administrative centers of Teotihuacán situated along the western shores of Lake Texcoco. This suggests a broader network of trade and interdependence, highlighting the complexity of socio-economic relationships in the region.
One particularly fascinating aspect of the discovery is the evidence of self-sustaining practices based on resource gathering and utilization from Lake Texcoco. These subsistence strategies, inferred through the analysis of Teotihuacán ceramics, reveal the villagers’ practical ingenuity and adaptability to their environment.
In addition to the Teotihuacano layers, archaeologists uncovered evidence of subsequent occupation. Layers dating to the Late Postclassic Period show signs of Aztec presence, while materials from the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries offer insights into the area’s continuous occupation and evolving history.
Notably, excavators revealed a system of channels believed to be part of a chinampería (chinampa-style agricultural area), reflecting Aztec agricultural techniques used to cultivate plants and vegetables. Within this area, researchers discovered an array of ceramic vessels, a headless seated sculpture, and various complete or partially complete artifacts dating from the Late Aztec III Period (CE 1440–1521).
The INAH team has concluded the excavation phase and is now focused on analyzing the recovered artifacts and human remains. At the same time, they are monitoring nearby construction activities to ensure the protection and preservation of this important archaeological site.
