9 Must-Visit Archaeological Sites in Mexico City: Explore the Past
Did you know there are 9 Fascinating Archaeological Sites in Mexico City?
Mexico’s Capital is a treasure trove of history, where modern life coexists with ancient civilizations.
Beneath the vibrant streets lies a rich tapestry of cultures that shaped Mexico’s past, from the powerful Aztec Empire to lesser-known yet equally fascinating civilizations.
For history buffs, culture enthusiasts, or curious travelers, the city’s many archaeological sites offer a unique opportunity to explore the remnants of these ancient worlds.
In today’s guide, I’ll uncover nine must-visit archaeological sites in Mexico City that will take you on a journey through time, connecting you with the mysteries and legacies of Mexico’s incredible past.
**Please note that the famous Pyramids of Teotihuacan are not on this list because they’re not in Mexico City, but rather on the outskirts, about 43 km away.
9 Must-Visit Archaeological Sites in Mexico City
1. Cerro de la Estrella
I want to start with Cerro de la Estrella (Star Hill), the only archaeological site southeast of Mexico City.
In this place, the ceremony of the “New Fire” was celebrated, which was of great importance for Mesoamerican societies.
Formerly called Huixachtecatl (hill of the huizaches), it is now called Cerro de la Estrella because, on the hill slopes, there was an hacienda called “Estrella.”
Getting to Cerro de la Estrella:
It is accessed by Calzada Estrella very close to Calzada Ermita Iztapalapa and Rojo Gomez Avenue.
Open daily from 09:00 to 17:00.
2. Cuicuilco
South of Mexico City lies the archaeological site of Cuicuilco, its spectacular base can be observed from the surroundings.
Cuicuilco means “Place where songs and dances are performed”
In these archaeological sites, you can admire the circular mound of Peña Pobre, within the current Villa Olimpica Ecological Park, and the Tenantongo Pyramid in the upper part of the Tlalpan Forest.
Getting to Cuicuilco:
Southbound on Insurgentes Avenue, in front of the Villa Olimpica.
Open daily from 09:00 to 17:00.
3. Cuahilama: The Jewel of Archaeological Sites in Mexico City
Cuahilama is located in the Xochimilco area, between San Gregorio and the Piedra Larga hill, the ancient Xochimilca inhabitants gave it this Nahuatl name, which means “Forest of the Old Woman.”
This archaeological zone is still in the exploration stage; according to INAH research, there are between 10 and 16 pre-Hispanic monuments in the area.
Getting to Cuahilama:
From downtown Xochimilco, follow the signs to San Gregorio.
This archaeological site in Mexico City can only be visited by obtaining a special permit from INAH.
4. Mixcoac
This archaeological zone was founded by the Mexicas. History has it that these ruins were located on the shores of Lake Texcoco.
With the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors, the settlement was nearly destroyed down to its foundations, which are the only remnants seen today.
It is thought that musicians and dancers used to come to this site to celebrate popular festivities.
You may want to read: The Ultimate Guide to Mexico City: 45 Must-See Attractions
Getting to Mixcoac:
On Pirámide Street, very close to Periférico and San Antonio, in the San Pedro de los Pinos neighborhood.
Currently, only the exterior of the archaeological zone can be visited.
5. Pino Suarez
The temple of Ehécatl is one of the smallest archaeological sites in Mexico City and one of the most visited since it is right in the heart of the Pino Suárez subway station.
More than 50 million people visit this site every year.
This archaeological site dates back to 1400 and is dedicated to the Mexica wind god “Ehecatl,” although not an official Archaeological Zone, it is protected by INAH.
Getting to Pino Suarez:
Again, it is right off the Pino Suarez Metro station Line 2.
You can visit daily during the subway operating hours.
6. Templo Mayor: One of the most famous Archaeological Sites in Mexico City
The Templo Mayor was a major temple in the ancient city of Tenochtitlan, the capital of the Aztec Empire (also known as the Mexica).
It was not a place where people lived, but rather a sacred space dedicated to the worship of the gods.
The temple was primarily devoted to two major deities:
- Huitzilopochtli, the god of war and the sun
- Tlaloc, the god of rain and agriculture
Priests and religious figures associated with the temple would have resided nearby and been responsible for conducting rituals, sacrifices, and other religious ceremonies.
The area surrounding the Templo Mayor was the religious and political heart of Tenochtitlan, where the ruling class and elites lived.
This is perhaps the best-known archaeological zone of Mexico City near the famous Zocalo.
You can also visit the Templo Mayor Museum, highlighting the exhibition of two of the main pieces found in the vicinity of the temple: Tlaltecuhtli and Coyolxauhqui.
Getting to Templo Mayor:
Again, this famous site is just a few steps from the capital’s Zocalo (main square), next to the cathedral.
It is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 to 17:00.
7. Tenayuca Archaeological Zone
Tenayuca sits in the limits of the neighboring State of Mexico and consists of two archeological sites separated by a few streets.
It is said that this enclosure was built by the Chichimecas, around the year 1250, although it was later used by the Mexicas, as in practically all the Archaeological Zones of Mexico.
Tenayuca houses an interesting museum that exhibits the objects found in the area.
Getting to Tenayuca:
Tenayuca is reached by the Calzada Vallejo, passing the Rio de los Remedios, following the signs.
Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 to 17:00.
8. Tlapacoya
The Tlapacoya Archaeological Site in Mexico City is on the hill known as the Elephant, in the limits of the municipality of Ixtapaluca in the state of Ixtapaluca.
This zone shelters vestiges that date back to 7,000 B.C., although it was occupied until 1,300 A.D.
The name Tlapacoya is of Nahuatl origin and means “Place where it washes,” this is one of the archaeological sites in Mexico City that you have to visit.
Getting to Tlapacoya:
From the Mexico – Puebla highway, at Km 28 is the detour, and follow the signs.
Open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 to 17:00.
9. Tlatelolco
Tlatelolco was founded around 1337, 13 years after the founding of Mexico Tenochtitlan, both cities built ceremonial precincts.
This is the archaeological zone with the largest collection of real estate exhibited in the big city, currently, this collection is exhibited in 4 museums.
The name Tlatelolco means “Terrace” and is of Nahuatl origin, the importance that Tlatelolco had in Tenochtitlan, makes it one of the archaeological sites in the world that generates more interest among tourists.
Getting to Tlatelolco:
The site is located on the corner of Ricardo Flores Magón, Eje Central, and Reforma av.
It is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Entrance is free.
Archaeological Sites in Mexico City: Final thoughts
In conclusion, Mexico City offers a fascinating journey through time, with its archaeological treasures reflecting the rich cultural heritage of ancient civilizations.
Each site provides a unique glimpse into the past, from grand temples and pyramids to lesser-known but equally significant ruins.
Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, exploring these ancient wonders will deepen your appreciation for Mexico’s vibrant and diverse history.
So, pack your curiosity and set off to uncover the layers of history that make Mexico City an archaeological gem waiting to be explored!
