The Pyramid of Sun is the largest
building in Teotihuacan and Mesoamerica. The name derives from Aztecs, who
visited the Teotihuacan during abandoned times. However, the name given to
Pyramid by the Teotihuacanos is not confirmed. The Pyramid is found along the
Avenue of the Dead, in between the Pyramid of the Moon and the Ciudadela, and
in the shadow of the massive mountain Cerro Gordo. The pyramid rises 216 feet
above ground level, and it measures about 720 by 760 feet at its base. It was
constructed of about 1,000,000 cubic yards of material.
The two phase construction
brought the size making the third largest Pyramid in the world, just over half
and height of the Great Pyramid of Giza. However, the second phase construction
could not survive into modern times. The Pyramid lime plaster imported from
nearby areas, with dazzlingly colored murals. As the time passes, the Pyramid
paint and plaster have no longer visible. The temple on the top of pyramid
demolished deliberately and natural forces has prevented identification of the
Pyramid.
The structure orientation had
some anthropological significance, August 12, and April 29 is divinatory
Calendar year for the Teotihuacanos. Hence, August 12, is most important
actually marked the date of beginning of the present era and initial day of the
Maya long count calendar. The Pyramid was built on a man-made tunnel, and it is
believed that place could have been used as royal tomb. There’re sacrificial
objects found inside the Pyramid and same objects have been discovered at the
nearby Pyramid of the Moon.
A unique historical artifact
discovered near the foot of the pyramid is now in the British Museum's
collection. Moreover, the burial sites of children have been found in
excavations at the corners of the pyramid, and thought these burials were part
of a sacrificial ritual dedicating the building of the pyramid. The city and
civilization was decline after 450 CE is not confirmed. Although,
archaeologists believe, that climate change severe droughts led to internal
unrest may have caused the destruction of the city. Nowadays, Teotihuacan is a widespread
tourist destination replete with museums and ongoing archaeological
investigation.
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