The Pyramid


We visited the pyramid San Felipe los Alzati and learned a bit about the history of the area.

On Wednesday we went to see the pyramid San Felipe los Alzati. This pyramid was built by the Matlazincas, a group of Indians that inhabited the area. They were located between two larger Indian groups, the Aztecs and the Tarascans. They were good politicians and were able to exist in this area from 800 to 1200 AD. They did side with the Tarascans who had the fortune of having weapons made of copper. Twice they fended off attempts to be conquered by the Aztecs. Their calendar was made of 18 months of 20 days each plus five extra days. How many days were in their year? They were hunters, gatherers, farmers and fishermen. This pyramid was discovered all covered with vegetation which has been removed. There is also a tomb next to the pyramid. The government is working to restore this pyramid and possibly open a museum of artifacts found at the site. It was very steep climbing to the top which made you think about how they got the rocks to the top.

The first picture shows some of the carvings that they created at their pyramid complex. the second picture shows the pyramid and the long stairs we climbed up.

I'm standing on top of the pyramid and you can see the valley below. The second picture shows the other section of the pyramid. On the way to the pyramid we saw many greenhouses full of beautiful plants. We also noticed many young children working in the greenhouses even though school was in session. The government of Mexico doesn't require children to attend school As a matter of fact they don't mind if some children don't go to school because it would cause a greater expense for the government.

Posted: Wed - March 9, 2005 at 07:09 PM          

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