The Great Pyramid of Cholula, an awe-inspiring monument located in Puebla, Mexico, stands as a testament to ancient ingenuity and ambition. Although it may not hold the title of the tallest pyramid, it indisputably claims the record for the largest pyramid by volume. For centuries, this colossal structure was misidentified as a mere hill, shrouded in mystery and obscurity. Today, as one of the world’s most significant yet underappreciated ancient wonders, the Cholula Pyramid’s story is both fascinating and tumultuous.
The Great Pyramid of Cholula, Mexico.
The Grand Scale and Mysterious Disguise
Covering a staggering area of 300 by 315 meters and with a total volume of 4.45 million cubic meters, the Great Pyramid of Cholula dwarfs its more famous Egyptian counterpart. Despite its height of only 66 meters, its immense bulk makes it nearly twice the size of the Great Pyramid of Giza. For centuries, this monumental structure was mistaken for a natural hill, its true nature obscured by centuries of overgrowth and neglect.
The pyramid’s history is as complex as its structure. Built over a period of approximately 1,000 years, it underwent multiple phases of construction and renovation. The initial phase began around 200 B.C.E. with a modest 10-square-meter base. Over the centuries, the pyramid expanded in grandeur, incorporating various architectural styles reflective of its evolving cultural context. The final version, completed nearly a millennium later, was a massive edifice dedicated to the god Quetzalcoatl, the plumed serpent deity revered by the region’s inhabitants.
The partially excavated remains of the Great Pyramid of Cholula in Mexico.
A Centerpiece of Culture and Ritual
The Great Pyramid of Cholula was more than just an architectural feat; it was a central hub of cultural and religious activity. At its zenith, Cholula was one of the largest cities in ancient Mexico, home to up to 100,000 people. The pyramid served as a significant ceremonial site and burial ground, where hundreds of remains have been uncovered. Among these are sacrificial offerings, including decapitated skulls believed to have been sent as messengers to the gods.
However, the pyramid’s prominence was short-lived. As the classic era of Cholula waned, the city’s population dwindled, and the pyramid was gradually abandoned. Over time, nature reclaimed the site, and the pyramid became hidden beneath layers of vegetation. By the time Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 16th century, led by Hernán Cortés, the structure was largely forgotten, covered by what seemed to be a grassy hill. The Spanish, perceiving it as a natural formation, destroyed a smaller temple at its peak and constructed a church, Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, atop the overgrown pyramid.
A model of the grounds at the Great Pyramid of Cholula, or Tlachihualtepetl.
Rediscovery and Modern Exploration
It wasn’t until the 19th century that the pyramid began to reveal its secrets. American archaeologist Adolph Bandelier’s surveys and excavations laid the groundwork for a more thorough exploration, which commenced in 1931. The extensive tunneling and mapping that followed uncovered just a fraction of the pyramid’s vast complexity, revealing miles of tunnels and intricate structures hidden within.
Today, the Great Pyramid of Cholula is a cherished monument and a site of pilgrimage. Visitors can explore both the church atop the pyramid and the extensive underground network, marveling at the ancient murals and architectural elements preserved within. Despite the challenges of balancing preservation with exploration, ongoing research continues to uncover new aspects of this remarkable structure.
The pyramid of Cholula sits beneath a church built by the Spanish in the 16th century.
In conclusion, the Great Pyramid of Cholula’s history is a tale of grandeur, neglect, and rediscovery. From its origins as a monumental religious center to its near-obscurity and eventual revival, the pyramid stands as a symbol of both ancient ambition and modern curiosity. As researchers and tourists continue to explore its depths, the Cholula Pyramid reclaims its place among the world’s most extraordinary ancient wonders, offering a window into the rich and complex history of pre-Columbian Mexico.