About Teotihuacán: The city where gods walked

Here’s the thing—nobody really knows who built Teotihuacán. Unlike the Maya or Aztecs, this civilization left behind no written records, no royal tombs, or known rulers. All we have are its pyramids, murals, and artifacts, and from them, archaeologists have tried to piece together the story.

What we do know is that the city started forming around 400 BCE, and by 100 AD, it had grown into a massive metropolis, with planned neighborhoods, markets, palaces, and religious centers. Some theories suggest that its early settlers were refugees from volcanic eruptions in the region, while others believe it was founded by a mix of different Mesoamerican cultures, including the Totonacs, Zapotecs, and Mixtecs.

At its height, Teotihuacán was bigger than imperial Rome, covering over 8 square miles (21 km²) and serving as a center of trade, religion, and power. Its people were master builders, astronomers, and engineers, designing a city that aligned perfectly with Orion’s Belt.

But then, around 550 AD, something happened. The city was suddenly abandoned. Some believe it was due to internal revolt, while others suggest drought or warfare. The Aztecs, who discovered its ruins centuries later, were so awestruck that they believed the gods themselves had built it.

The truth? It’s still buried beneath the ruins, waiting to be uncovered.