Malinalco Archaeological Zone
Malinalco · Cerro de los Ídolos
Aztec Late Postclassic 1476–1501 CE·Aztec (Mexica)·🇲🇽 State of Mexico, Mexico
About
About Malinalco Archaeological Zone
Monolithic Cuauhcalli temple carved from living tuff, circular chamber 6 m with eagles/jaguars, Aztec eagle-warrior initiation 1501 CE under Ahuizotl.
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Why it mattersArchaeological landmark for Aztec (Mexica) in State of Mexico; type-site demonstrating rock-cut cuauhcalli and regional exchange.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Function and chronology of Malinalco Archaeological Zone within Aztec Late Postclassic 1476–1501 CE
- 02Relationship to neighboring polities
Theories
- 01Aztec (Mexica) ceremonial center for rock-cut cuauhcalli
- 02Regional capital controlling trade and tribute network
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c.1476–1501 CE
- Period
- Aztec Late Postclassic 1476–1501 CE
- Culture
- Aztec (Mexica)
- Builders
- Aztec (Mexica imperial)
- Purpose
- Rock-cut cuauhcalli
- Rediscovered
- 1933 discovery
- Excavation
- Excavated
c.1476–1501 CE
Malinalco Archaeological Zone construction phase
20th century
Modern excavations
On the ground
Structures & features
18.9531° N · 99.5036° W · 2060 m · 2 mapped features
Malinalco Archaeological Zone central feature
featureMain architectural feature
18.9531° N · 99.5036° WMalinalco Archaeological Zone secondary sector
sectorSecondary sector
18.9541° N · 99.5026° W