Cuicuilco, Mesoamerica's only circular pyramid, was part of one of the first civil and religious centers in central Mexico.

The heyday of the civilization that constructed the pyramid was from around 600 BC-200 BC; most of the city was destroyed by the eruption of Xitle, the volcano that created El Pedregal, in 400 BC.

A massive migration by the local population followed in the wake of the disaster. Most Cuicuilcas are believed to have made their way to the emerging civilizations of Teotihuacan and Toluca, into which important aspects of their culture were absorbed. (Historians have identified Cuicuilca archeological and astronomical influences in the ruins of both cities.)

The pyramid itself is partially covered by lava, with only 18 of the original estimated 27 meters above ground.

Nowadays, housing projects and shopping malls are creeping up on what used to be a rural archeological site, so if you want to see Cuicuilco as it as been for centuries, you should hurry.

Location:

Mexico City, Mexico

Ruin Types:
Ruins

Getting There
Take the Metrobus down Insurgentes to Dr. Galvez, change to Pesero and ask for “Villa Coapa o La Jaya,” get off after the ring road.

Relative price: Free

Open Hours from:9 a.m.

Open Hours to:5 p.m.

Days Closed:none

Travel Skills: None

By Lisa Rodan

Created: 03 Jan 2009

Updated: 03 Jan 2009