The Pyramid of the Sun is the largest structure at Teotihuacán, the ancient city about 30 km from central Mexico City. It stands on the east side of the Avenue of the Dead, with the Pyramid of the Moon at the avenue's far end. Built around 200 CE in one construction effort, it ranks among the biggest pyramids anywhere. Its alignment follows the sunrise and sunset on certain days of the year. Walk the avenue, add the site museum beside the pyramid, and plan for a long day on foot with little shade.
Where it stands on the Avenue of the Dead
The pyramid rises on the east side of the Avenue of the Dead, the long processional road that organises the ancient city. The avenue begins at the Plaza of the Moon, where the Pyramid of the Moon closes the view to the north. At its southern end are the Ciudadela and the Temple of the Feathered Serpent, also known as the Temple of Quetzalcoatl. Between the two ends, temples, palaces and plazas line the way.
The site has five gates, and the choice matters. Gate 1, by the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, is about 2.5 km from the Sun and Moon pyramids. Gate 2 puts you right beside the Pyramid of the Sun, which suits anyone arriving by taxi, Uber or private tour. The site museum is next to the pyramid, so the two fit into one stop.
What is known about the pyramid
Teotihuacán was founded around 200 BC and is regarded as the first planned urban settlement in Mesoamerica. Work on the Pyramid of the Sun began around 200 CE, and it was raised in a single, massive construction effort. It is the largest building in the city. Sources give different figures for its height, so treat any single number with care.
At the city's height the pyramid's plaster was painted bright red. Recent excavations have uncovered offerings of greenstone objects and traces of exterior sculpture with motifs of fire and jaguars. The pyramid's alignment follows the sunrise and sunset on certain days of the year.
Much remains uncertain. The interior has never been fully explored, and a subterranean tunnel found in 2014 is still being excavated. Its purpose is not known, though one theory ties it to the veneration of a particular Teotihuacano deity. Researchers also do not agree on who lived in the city. Some propose Nahuas, Otomis or Totonacs, and others a multi-ethnic society. The name Teotihuacán is Nahuatl and means the place where the gods were created.
Planning the day on site
Expect a lot of walking. One visitor logged over 20,000 steps in a day, and a tour that covered the Temple of Quetzalcoatl and both major pyramids took about four hours. Without a guide you can go slower and add the museum, which holds artifacts and a model of the city at its peak.
For a quiet pause, there is a shaded stretch of wall facing the Pyramid of the Sun where you can sit in the afternoon with a clear view of it. Early in the morning, balloons float over the pyramid, and arriving before the tour groups gives you the plaza almost to yourself. Attendance rises around the spring equinox.
For food, a restaurant stands by the Pyramid of the Sun and the museum, and another is in the park near the main entrance. Restrooms are well kept. The entrance and parking lot are wheelchair accessible, and parking is paid. Vendors along the paths sell souvenirs, so keep some extra cash.
FAQ
How much is entry to the Pyramid of the Sun?
Entry to the Teotihuacán site is 210 Mexican pesos per person, paid in cash at the ticket booth. Residents with valid proof of residence can get half off.
How long do you need at Teotihuacán?
Plan on 3 to 4 hours for the main temples and pyramids. Adding the museum and the long walks between sights can turn it into a full day.
Which gate is closest to the Pyramid of the Sun?
Gate 2 puts you next to the pyramid. Gate 1, at the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, is about 2.5 km from the Sun and Moon pyramids.
How far is it from Mexico City?
The site is about 30 km from the center of Mexico City, roughly an hour by road.
Is there shade at the site?
Very little. Bring a hat, sunscreen and water, and go early in the morning to avoid the hottest hours.
