Jenna SeyerWhen you hear the word “pyramid,” what usually comes to mind is the pyramids of Egypt, the Great Pyramid of Giza a universally-known wonder of the world and the largest and oldest of the three. But there’s another surprise, an archaeological jewel that dates back to nearly 2,000 years ago. And this pyramid has a ‘tunnel to the underworld’ – here’s one for your Mexico travel you can’t miss!
The Green Pyramids, also known as Los Guachimontones, represent the largest-discovered site from the Teuchitlan culture. Like a layered cake in shape, the Pyramids feature round, central altars, delicately-chiseled steps, and a circular platform.
These Pyramids tell the stories of a forgotten civilization. Recently, archaeologists have discoverd a secret tunnel hidden beneath the Pyramid of the Moon here – thought to have been built as link to the underworld. The idea behind the tunnel may have been to reproduce the underworld. Now that’s travel on a whole new level – or shall we say dimension?
Los Guachimontones. Photo: Ford Brackin via Pixabay
Unearthing a Lost World
The centuries-old ruins are found in the town of Teuchitlan, Jalisco, and are home to the world’s only circular pyramids. So, they have pretty cool bragging rights. It just makes your travel experience that much more exciting. The Pyramids will be a stunning addition to your Mexico travel plans and will fully immerse you in a fascinating world.
As the seventh most-visited archaeological site in Mexico, the Pyramids are said to be the finest in the western parts of the country. The whole area region, including Los Guachimontones, was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Photo: Esteban Tucci via Wikimedia Commons
American archaeologist Dr Phil Weigand and his wife Celia Weigand discovered the site in 1969. You can take a guided tour around the area or discover its beauty on your own. Either way, your Mexico travel experience to Los Guachimontones will be memorable.
You’ll not only be able to learn about the lost world of the Teuchitlan people, but you’ll also travel back in time. Like something out of a painting, the Pyramids will blow you away when you travel here.
Today, more than 150,000 people each year visit the Pyramids. Travel to Mexico so you can be a part of it!
Guachimontones Photo: ego2005 via Flickr
Mexico travel tip: How to get the Pyramids
The best way to get to the Pyramids is to take a bus from Guadalajara to the town of Tala on Highway 70, then to take a taxi to the Teuchitlan village. There will be signs pointing you in the direction of the tourist site.
Once you get there, the hike is a long one, with steep inclines along the way. With a taxi, you may be able to persuade the driver to take you directly to the information center. It’s also recommended to dress accordingly to the weather. And, since there’s not much shade at the pyramids, bring water and sunscreen just to be safe.
Also Read:
Mexico Road Trip: Coasting the Wild Baja Peninsula
Mexico: One-of-a-Kind Wildlife Adventures That Will Blow You Away
Check out our Travel Ideas section for more amazing adventures in Mexico!
