Ancient pyramid discovered during road construction works in Hidalgo, Mexico

by Dario Radley December 6, 2024

Construction work on Federal Highway 105 in Hidalgo, Mexico, has unearthed the remnants of a pre-Hispanic pyramid and settlement.



The remains of a pre-Hispanic pyramid and settlement uncovered during the construction of the Pachuca-Hidalgo Highway in Mexico. Credit: INAH

Archaeologists from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) have identified the site, dubbed “San Miguel” due to its proximity to the town of San Miguel Metzquititlán, as a pre-Hispanic settlement. It spans from the Epiclassic period (CE 650–950) to the Late Postclassic period (CE 1350–1519).

The pyramid, referred to as “Structure 1,” was discovered during the construction of a third lane on the Pachuca-Huejutla highway in the municipality of San Agustín Metzquititlán. The site consists of five sectors with at least ten mounds and has yielded 155 artifacts, including ceramics, shells, and lithic materials, as well as evidence of lime floors, charcoal, and charred wood. Researchers believe the settlement may have been associated with the Metzca lordship, a multi-ethnic society that flourished in the Sierra Alta region.

“This archaeological record provides valuable insights into the human occupation of the Sierra Alta region, particularly in the Barranca de Metztitlán area, where historiography traces settlements back 14,000 years,” INAH stated in its official report.



Specialists use drones for photogrammetric models and collect 155 samples for archaeometric studies. Credit: INAH

. . .

Hidalgo is home to several notable pre-Hispanic sites, such as the Atlantes of Tula and the Xihuingo archaeological zone. The Atlantes, towering Toltec stone figures, are described by National Geographic as some of the largest anthropomorphic figures in the region, representing Quetzalcoatl. The Xihuingo site, associated with Teotihuacán, features the El Tecolote pyramid and astronomical markers. Researchers hope that, despite financial challenges, future studies will reveal the cultural and historical significance of this newly uncovered settlement.

More:
https://archaeologymag.com/2024/12/ancient-pyramid-discovered-in-hidalgo-mexico/


Jeez! That highway is only a few feet away from the pyramid!