Mexico was the cradle of a number of important civilizations that developed throughout the region and is considered one of the most archaeologically rich countries in the world. Mexico boasts 29,000 archaeological sites, 150 of which are open to the public. Many of these sites are designated UNESCO World Patrimony sites, meaning that they are recognized as sites that bear clues to mankind’s origins and evolution. These sites feature crater sites, pyramids, prehistoric men and even dinosaurs making it an archaeological wonderland.
Just recently, ancient offerings were found beneath the famous Pyramid of the Sun. Archaeology experts believe this detailed greenstone mask that was discovered might have been a replica of a person living in that era.
This Detailed greenstone mask was found beneath Mexico’s famous Pyramid of the sun and experts say it is a replica of a specific person.
Located in the north-eastern region of Mexico, the Pyramid of the Sun is the largest structure in Teotihuacan and the second largest in Mesoamerica. It is also the third-largest pyramid in the world. It is believed to have been constructed in 100 CE. The pyramid rises 216 feet above ground level, and it measures approximately 720 by 760 feet at its base. In the early 1970s exploration below the pyramid revealed a system of caves and tunnel chambers, and other tunnels were later found throughout the city.
The Pyramid of the Sun, a large pyramid in the ancient city of Teotihuacán, Mexico, that was built about 100 CE and is one of the largest structures of its type in Mexico.
Archaeologist believes that about 2000 years ago, the items found including the green mask would have been placed at the Pyramid of the Sun. These experts came to the conclusion that these amazing treasures may have been placed beneath the pyramid to mark the start of the construction of the famous pyramid. Of the three treasures found, the three greenstone figurines were the most noticeable according to these experts.
The most obvious physical properties of serpentine are its green color, patterned appearance, and slippery feel. These remind the observer of a snake and that is where the name “serpentine” was derived.
Mexico’s main archaeological agency, the National Institute of Anthropology and History along with a few archaeologists, have been inspecting these pyramid sites for the past years and after an intensive excavation involving 59 holes and 3 short tunnels, they discovered several human burial sites including those of children which can be dated before the construction of the Pyramid.
Peter Cortex, an investigator from Zacatecas National Institute of Anthropology and History center, believes that the greenstone mask along with the discovered offerings found at the Pyramid of the Sun was likely part of a dedication ceremony.
Source: Livescience.com
Nethmi Jayatilleke is a University Undergraduate by day and Freelance Content Writer by night. An avid lover of music, theatre and poetry, Nethze (Her Nickname) considers herself to be a professional procrastinator. She loves adventure, wildlife and is a caffeine dependent. Nethmi enjoys writing articles ranging from serious topics like politics and social issues to more lighthearted things like art, pop culture, and nature. In her spare time, nethmi loves writing food reviews and poetry.
