Blog Post 3: Google Maps Walk of Teotihuacan

After today’s lecture, some interesting and lively feedback were given in relation to the blog and forum posts, so moving forward I will try and keep this week’s response more focused on addressing the question!  Teotihuacan was one of largest populated and scaled architectural forms found in the Classic- period of Mesoamerica, in modern day Mexico. This post will discuss the Sun and Moon Pyramids as we travel along the Avenue of the Dead, virtually using Google Maps.

The first place to examine is the Pyramid of the Moon.  The sheer size of the pyramid compared to the undeveloped surroundings highlights the power, control, and class segregation that existed.  The Pyramid was used as tomb site, and the architecture shows the different stages it was built (different levels).  Much like the symbology behind the Egyptian Pyramids, it displays the organization and control that rulers had over the people.  Building such massive monuments was likely done to display the ruler’s importance and power during his life.  Also, it signifies the importance that the after life had on the ruler.

Pyramid of Moon

Next, we saw the Pyramid of the Sun; the largest structure in Teotohuacan.  Located at near the center, the location and size signifies its importance.  Built later by a succeeding ruler, again it shows the organization, power, and class segregation.  The ruler would require thousands of people to build the Pyramid and it shows his ultimate control to do so.  Both the Pyramids of Sun and Moon display similar relationship and environments.

Pyramid of Sun 

The Street of Dead is a large open courtyard that was used for ritual activities.  We notice that Teotihuacan takes shape of grid patterns. However, the open spaces, wide roads, green space, and less fortified design show a much different type of setting than witness in Timgad or Pikillacta.  Instead of having complicated road networks and control over the people’s spatial movements, the Street of Dead exemplifies how the people were freer. I would hypothesize that the leaders of Teotohuacan were respected rather than feared!

Street of Dead- Look at all the open space!