General Description
The Pyramid is the third largest pyramid in the world. It is one of the most visited archealogical sites in Teotihuacán . The whole city is aligned astronomically. It is thought to be dedicated to sun worship around 150 bc. The Pyramid of the Sun is aligned east-west and is perpendicular to the point on the horizon where the sun set on the equinoxes. It is believed that ceremonies and pageantry were held on the steps and ledges. Wheels nor animals were used in the construction of the pyramid. Therefore all materials were carried by people. It took over thirty years to complete.
Architectural Design
The pyramid covers 7.5 acres and is 215 feet high. It’s estimated that around three thousand workers worked thirty years to complete. There was no use of wheels in the pyramid’s construction. People carried 2.5 million tons of earth, stone and rubble. The pyramid was built with a low profile to prevent erosion. It was once covered with clay bricks and smooth, white polished lime plaster. Some of it was painted although most of it is no longer visible. The pyramid consists of four stepped platform and a temple.
Harmony with Nature
The pyramid is surrounded by mountains. In 1971 a large cave was found under the pyramid. It is believed that the cave is a natural lava tube. The geographical layout of Teotihuacán pyramid is a representation of the Teotihuacán view of the universe. Its placement is aligned to precisely 15.5º east of north, where the sun sets at the equinoxes.
Symbolism and Sacred Objects
The pyramid was built over caves and were thought to be symbolic. The caves are thought to be symbolic wombs of where gods and goddesses and the ancestors emerged from other realms. Arrowheads and human figurines have been discovered inside the pyramid and similar objects have been found inside the pyramid. The objects may have represented the human sacrifices that were made. Sacrifices were made to please the Gods. Human skeletal remains were found and remains of animals were found some of which were buried alive. Tombs with the remains of children were found at the four corners of the base of the pyramid.
How it is used by Worshippers
People were buried alive. Human sacrifices were made. Animals were thought to be buried alive as well. Tombs of children were found at the base of the pyramid. Rituals were also believed to be performed on the steps and on the top of the pyramid. The pyramid was also for astronomical observations. It is believed that when an addition was added to the pyramid a human sacrifice was made.
Sources
http://www.sacred-destinations.com/mexico/teotihuacan.htm
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