The ancient city of Teotihuacan is situated in the Valley of Mexico, about 25 miles NE of modern Mexico City. Built between the first and seventh centuries CE, Teotihuacan evolved into a huge urban center, spreading its cultural influence throughout Mesoamerica. The city reached its peak circa 450 CE, when it covered over 11 square miles and had a population of perhaps 150,000. The site is dominated by the Pyramid of the Sun , the Pyramid of the Moon and the Temple of Quetzalcoatl (also known as Temple of the Feathered Serpent). One characteristic of the city’s monumental structures is the talud-tablero architectural style. Teotihuacan was also home to multi-floor apartment compounds. Archaeological evidence suggests that Teotihuacan was a multi-ethnic city, but its predominant language has not been identified. Although the  city survived until the seventh century, its major monuments were sacked and systematically burned around 550 CE.

Panoramic view of Teotihuacan from the top of the Pyramid of the Moon, with the Pyramid of the Sun on the left. Photo: Rene Trohs.