In many of these ancient cultures; which geographically speaking were quite distant from each other (Egypt, Moche, Maya, Aztec, Caral); the use of pyramids  for a religious or symbolic effect, has been recognized. In many cases, a pyramidal structure was meant to be a place with particular religious meaning.

The presence of the Mayan and Aztec cultures in the now Mexican territory left behind, amongst other remnants, many monumental pyramids. All of them are in a staggered style of architecture. Below we’ll mention the most important ones:

Teotihuacan: In the area known as Teotihuacan, we’re able to find the two Aztec pyramids that are most representative within all of the Mexican territory: the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. They were constructed between the 1st century B.C and the 2nd century A.D and measure 63 meters and 45 meters respectively (206 feet for the sun pyramid and 147 for the moon pyramid, approximately). Both were considered to be sacred places.

Cholula: The Great Pyramid of Cholula or Tiachihualtepetl in Puebla, is the largest pyramid structure in all of Mexico. With 202,500 meters squared (664,370 feet) and a height of 65 meters squared (213 feet), this gigantic construction was erected by the Aztecs as a temple in honor to their god, Chiconaquiahuitl.

Chichen Itza: Within the archeological complex of Chichen Itza, which is part of the Mayan culture located in the Yucatan peninsula, the Kukulcan temple rises majestically. It’s a pyramid of 24 meters (78 feet) in height that possesses 365 steps (one step for every day in a year). The belief is that this pyramid was not only used as a religious center, but also as a very important structure in which to practice astronomy and observe the skies.

Palenque: Located in Chiapas, Palenque is a Mayan city that hosts, amongst other structures, the pyramid known as the Templo de las Inscripciones (Temple of Inscriptions). The tradition states that this pyramid is actually the tomb of the mythical ruler Pacal, who was a legendary hero and Mayan icon and who is also present in the sacred book of Popol Vuh.

Now you don’t have any excuse not to enjoy these awe inspiring marvels of history that demonstrate the importance of Central American cultures. Mexico is synonymous with tradition and culture.

Technorati Tags: tourism, tours, trips, places, tours, Mexico, Piramyds of Mexico.

In this region of Mexico, you can find true architectural jewels like the Metropolitan Cathedral, which was constructed through three centuries. This Cathedral is the seat of the First Archdioses of Mexico, and is located in front of Constitution Square. It is one of the main works of Mexican art, and is considered to be one of the most representative works of hispanoamerican art.

National Palace: Is the seat of the executive federal power in Mexico. According to what history tells us, this place was for years right behind where the leaders of Mexico exercised their authority. Inside this palace, you can visit several places, among which are: the Homage Enclosure to Benito Juárez, Parlamentary Enclosure (old Chamber of Deputies), Juárez Hall, Gallery of the Insurgents, Gallery of the Presidents, Moorish Hall, Panamerican Hall, Archive of Francisco I Madero, and Archeological Exhibits.

Main Square or Consitution Square: Is a gigantic public space surrounded by the Metropolitan Cathedral, the National Palace, the City Hall, among other buildings. With the passage of time, the square has suffered through great modifications, has had green spaces, monuments, fountains, and a market called El Parián.

National Art Museum: In this museum is a rich collection of Mexican art that spans from the XVI century to the first half of the XX century. Among its great art collections, you can find the paintings of Juan Correa, Miguel Cabrera, Eugenio Landesio and the largest collection of paintings from the prominent Mexican landscape artist, Jose María Velasco, among others.

The Palace of Fine Arts: is the place where a large number of artistic and cultural activities take place. These range from painting, sculpture, and architectural exhibits to presentations of Mexico’s famous operas and concert music, in addition to presentations on classical ballet and the folk ballet of Amalia Hernandez.

The Latin American Tower: Is the first skyscraper of the Mexican capital. It has 43 stories of offices and an antenna for the transmission of radio and television signals. In addition, on top of the building there is a viewpoint from which you can see various parts of the city.

Mexico’s Historical Center is the best way to learn about the history and culture of Mexico, and for this reason it has been designated as a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn a little more about Mexico.

 Images: Mundo City,  Ruta Nómada, VisitingMexico

 Blogalaxia Tags: Travel Abroad, Tourism, Mexico, Historical Center, New Spain

You arrive at Cancun international airport, about 45 minutes from Playa del Carmen. The Mandarin Hotel – Mayan Riviera‏ is an excelent luxurious place to be in.
You can choose a relax touring the nearby ancient Mayan ruins like Chichén Itzá and Palenque… or in their glorious spa!

Its worth it!!