Sunday, 26 July 2020

Astonishing Zapotec Ruins and Carvings Found in Mexico

25 JULY, 2020 - ED WHELAN
https://www.ancient-origins.net/news-history-archaeology/zapotec-ruins-0014029

A monument found among the Zapotec ruins in south-west Mexico. Source: EFE

An astonishing discovery has been made on top of a mountain in Mexico. Archaeologists and locals have been exploring a site where previously unknown Zapotec ruins and carvings have been found. The Zapotec ruins date back 2500 years and are providing new insight into an important culture in Mesoamerica before the coming of the Conquistadors.

The discovery was made by local people from the village of Santa Cruz Huehuepiaxtla, which is in Puebla state in south-west Mexico. This area of the country is rich in historic ruins and archaeological sites. The finds were made on the summit of Cerro de Peña mountain at a height of 6000 feet (1,828.8 meters). It is reported by Reporter Choice that ‘Access to the site is along a rocky path, which takes two and a half hours to climb’.

It takes two and a half hours to climb up to the Zapotec ruins. ( Oro Noticias )
Significant Zapotec Ruins on the Summit


Archaeologists from Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) were amazed at what they found on the mountain top. José Alfredo Arellanes, who works with the INAH, stated, “Initial investigations suggest a ceremonial area, flanked by temples and the homes of the rulers, would have been located at the top of the mountain.”

The mountain top was home to seven-step pyramids, a public space used as a ceremonial area, and a ball court. Here pelota, a game played with a heavy rubber ball, was played. This game had immense social and even ceremonial significance throughout Mesoamerica. Pelota involved players using their hips to put a ball through a hoop.

So far, investigators at the Zapotec ruins have found two stelae that have panels of engravings, as well as a number of smaller stones with carvings that are all well-preserved. Mr. Arellanes is quoted by the BBC as saying that “87 glyphs, or symbols, have been found so far.” They include depictions of horned figures and animals, including iguanas and eagles. There is also a large female figure, which may possibly be a goddess, that resembles a bat.


Pics and story continue's at:   https://www.ancient-origins.net/news-history-archaeology/zapotec-ruins-0014029

Recommend this post and follow The birth of modern Man

No comments:

Post a Comment