Archaeologists from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) and the INAH Puebla Centre, have unearthed several pyramidal structures at the Los Teteles de Ávila Castillo archaeological site, dating back over 3,000 years to the late Middle Formative period.
The site, locally known as Tetelictic or “Los cerritos,” covers an area of 7.4 acres and served as a crucial ceremonial complex and pilgrimage destination for inhabitants of the Sierra Norte region.”
According to experts, these ancient peoples later migrated to prominent pre-Hispanic cities such as Teotihuacan, Cantona, or Cholula before returning to Tetelictic to pay homage to their ancestors. The cultural characteristics of Tetelictic are said to be typical of Totonac groups.
The latest excavations, prompted by erosion and looting of materials for local construction, have revealed three pyramidal structures accompanied by significant archaeological finds. These discoveries include charred ceramics, polished lithics, and objects crafted from obsidian and basalt. Obsidian flakes found throughout the site suggest the presence of an obsidian lithic industry for manufacturing tools and weapons.
One of the key structures, designated as Structure 1, is believed to have served as an astronomical observatory, aligned with mountain ranges in the surrounding landscape and the star Canopus, the brightest star in the southern constellation of Carina. This alignment facilitated the observation of the agricultural cycle, crucial for ancient agricultural practices.
Alberto Diez Barroso Repizo, head of the Teteles de Ávila Castillo archaeological project, emphasized the significance of the site’s urban layout, allowing solar observation for agricultural calendar registration. The municipal president, Mario Castro Jiménez, and the president of the civil association Tzoncoyotl, Josefina Rosario Viveros, have supported ongoing research efforts at the site.
Archaeologists plan to delve deeper into understanding the construction and architectural systems of the pyramid bases. Mario Castro Jiménez, president of the Tzoncoyotl civil association, said: “In the following seasons, we will focus on knowing the construction and architectural systems of the pyramidal bases.” However, access to the archaeological site will remain restricted until authorized by relevant authorities.
The research, spanning over a decade, highlights the cultural and historical significance of Tetelictic as a center of religious and ceremonial activities.
