Pyramid of the Moon: A Journey Through Time and Ritual
by Dorothy and Bill Bell
The Pyramid of the Moon, located in the ancient city of Teotihuacan, was named by the Aztecs when they discovered the city centuries after its original inhabitants had mysteriously disappeared. The pyramid mirrors the shape of Cerro Gordo, the hill that rises directly behind it, and serves as a key landmark at the northern end of the Avenue of the Dead, marking the beginning of this grand urban complex.
The pyramid’s commanding presence is not only due to its size—second only to the Pyramid of the Sun—but also because it stands on elevated terrain, making it the highest point in Teotihuacan. From this vantage, it oversees the Plaza of the Moon, a large open space surrounded by twelve smaller pyramid platforms. These platforms may have been gathering spots for thousands of early residents to witness rituals, including human sacrifices, performed atop the pyramid. At the center of the plaza stands a bold and singular altar, dedicated to the Great Goddess, a key deity associated with water, earth, fertility, and creation.
Construction and Symbolism
The Pyramid of the Moon was the first major structure built in Teotihuacan, with construction beginning in the first century AD. Over time, it grew in stages, much like a Russian doll, with each new phase encasing the previous one. Archaeological evidence, including human and animal sacrifices and ceremonial offerings, indicates that several of these stages were inaugurated with ritual events. These offerings, particularly in the third, fourth, and fifth stages of construction, reflect the deep spiritual significance of the pyramid.
A Sacred Plaza for Religious Rituals
Surrounding the Pyramid of the Moon, the Plaza of the Moon was the heart of Teotihuacan’s religious activities. Built between 1 and 350 AD, the pyramid ultimately reached a height of 46 meters (150 feet), with a base measuring 168 meters (550 feet) on each side. Its steep staircase on the southern side provided access to the higher tiers, and although climbing the full height is now restricted, visitors can still access the front five-tiered platform.
From the plaza, thousands of onlookers would have gathered to witness the sacrifices and rituals that took place on the pyramid. The earliest evidence of human sacrifice at the site dates back to around 200 AD. Within the pyramid’s tombs, archaeologists have found both human and animal remains, alongside ceremonial objects crafted from obsidian and greenstone. These tombs reveal the intricate religious practices that helped maintain the power of Teotihuacan’s ruling elite.
One significant tomb, marking the fourth stage of construction, contained the remains of a man who had been buried alive, his hands bound, accompanied by the skeletons of jaguars, wolves, and pumas, as well as over 400 ritual artifacts. This gruesome offering was dedicated to the Great Goddess, and similar finds from later stages underscore the pyramid’s role as a center for sacrificial rites.
The Teotihuacan Cross and Social Order
The Plaza of the Moon’s layout, including its central altar and four rectangular spaces forming what is known as the “Teotihuacan Cross,” created an ideal setting for religious and political events. Human sacrifices played a crucial role in maintaining social order, with captured enemies often brought to Teotihuacan to be sacrificed publicly, rather than being killed on the battlefield. These spectacles reinforced the power and authority of the city’s elite, including its priests and religious leaders.
Practical Tips for Visiting
Today, visitors to the Pyramid of the Moon can experience the grandeur of Teotihuacan firsthand. Climbing is limited to the five-tiered platform attached to the front of the pyramid, and it’s important to be prepared for a strenuous ascent. The stairs are notably steeper than those of the Pyramid of the Sun, so take your time and bring plenty of water. The view from the top is well worth the effort—you’ll have a stunning vista that stretches down the Avenue of the Dead, past the Pyramid of the Sun, and all the way to the Citadel in the south.
A Magical Journey Through History
Walking through the Avenue of the Dead today, with the Pyramid of the Moon rising in the distance and Cerro Gordo standing sentinel behind it, is a magical journey back in time. Vendors along the avenue offer traditional goods such as hammocks, tablecloths, jewelry, and other souvenirs, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of this ancient city.
The Pyramid of the Moon, with its rich history of construction, ritual, and sacrifice, remains a powerful symbol of Teotihuacan’s legacy. Its enduring presence reminds visitors of the mysteries and grandeur of ancient Mesoamerican cultures, and the opportunity to explore these sacred spaces is truly a gift from Mexico’s past.
Visiting Teotihuacan: Key Considerations
- Climbing: Only the front five-tiered platform of the Pyramid of the Moon is accessible. The stairs are steep, so be prepared for a challenging climb.
- Bring essentials: Carry water, a camera, and a cell phone for photos and hydration.
- Views: The view from the platform offers a breathtaking perspective of the Avenue of the Dead and the surrounding structures.