Mexico’s history dates back to pre-Hispanic civilisations that left behind astonishing pyramids and temples, while its colonial period produced elegant towns and buildings such as Guanajuato’s UNESCO-listed center with cobalt-blue houses that inspired Frida Kahlo to become an artist of note.
El Tajin, an unexcavated pyramid, should not be missed. Additionally, Mitla stands as a representation of Mesoamerican culture and features a ceremonial center and palaces.
Teotihuacan
Teotihuacan was one of the most influential cities in Mesoamerica from 350 to 650 CE, when its classical phase lasted between 350 and 650 CE. The complex’s central feature was its Pyramid of Feathered Serpent; an intricate structure housing a temple dedicated to Quetzalcoatl. Additionally, there were murals depicting ritual sacrifices as well as other aspects of nature requiring balance to remain stable on site.
Walking along the Avenue of the Dead, a central axis which cuts through pyramids and plazas, is the best way to experience this massive site. Also worth seeing: Museo del Sitio which houses artifacts unearthed at archaeological sites as well as Museo del Sitio that houses these finds; an expert tour can further enrich your visit experience.
Palenque
Palenque, Mexico’s spectacular archaeological ruins, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s premier destinations. Though largely hidden for over eight centuries before being discovered in the 1700s.
At Palenque, the temples that sit atop steep earthen mounds – known as Grupo de las Cruces – stand as some of the finest examples of Classic Maya architecture. Many temples contain carvings depicting mythical creatures and religious stories as well as portraits of elite rulers.
On this hill sits a ball court, an aqueduct which diverts Otulum River under an impressive Palace of the Count (named for its discoverer), and Pakal’s tomb from Maya times (the only intact tomb surviving to this day).
Monte Alban
Monte Alban in Oaxaca served as an important sociopolitical center for Zapotecs for nearly one millennium, reaching its zenith at the end of Rosario period and remaining connected with Mesoamerica’s regional powers such as Teotihuacan to its north.
Architecture, ceramics and paintings of Teotihuacan were strongly evident here, suggesting frequent interaction between both cultures. Also present here are los Danzantes stones with facial features exhibiting Olmec influence that attest to this interaction.
Tomb 7 at Monte Alban is perhaps its most iconic monument, housing one of America’s richest treasures – gold, silver, copper, jade, turquoise amber and shell among them – that have ever been discovered. It can be found displayed at Oaxaca Museum of Cultures.
Mitla
Mitla (Nahuatl: “Place of the Dead”) is one of Mexico’s best-preserved archaeological sites and was originally constructed by Zapotecs prior to Common Era, until they were defeated by Spanish in 16th Century. Subsequently occupied by Mixtecs until ultimately being lost due to Spanish conquest.
Mitla is located 30 miles outside Oaxaca and contains palaces and tombs famous for their elaborate fretwork designs and geometric motifs. There are two primary groups at Mitla: Church Group which contains palaces and a chapel; and Column Group used by King Mitla himself.
Visits to Mitla’s ancient ruins provide visitors with a glimpse into life during Mesoamerica’s Pre-Columbian era. Furthermore, Mitla makes for a fantastic shopping destination, providing access to mezcal, textiles adorned with intricate embroidery work, and local food products.
El Tajin
El Tajin, located near Veracruz on Mexico’s coastal city, stands as one of its finest examples of an Epiclassic and early Post Classic period town in terms of preservation. Additionally, this site was recognized by UNESCO World Heritage as evidence of Mesoamerican architecture and culture.
This incredible series of ruins from an ancient civilization that once extended from Mexico’s coast into central Mexico include pyramids, palaces and ball courts – with pyramid of Niches as its centerpiece containing 365 niches representing Mesoamerican calendar and time.
El Tajin stands out as an idyllic destination due to its remote location and is well worth visiting. Make sure to head north of Tajin Chico where some buildings still display original paintwork.
