Cultural & Archaeological Tour at Templo Mayor & Museum of Anthropology by Estigo Tours
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; easy walking and standing involved.
Overview
Discover the ancient roots of Mexico City with a tour of Templo Mayor and the Museum of Anthropology. Dive into Aztec history and marvel at world-class artifacts in a memorable adventure.
Templo Mayor & Museum of Anthropology (MX)
Discover the Mysteries
Select participants and date
Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Duration
7 Hours
About
Get a look at Mexico City's Aztec heritage with a tour to some of the last relics to survive from the days before Columbus and Cortes. With a visit to the Templo Mayor Museum and an in-depth look at the historic city, you can explore the unique past and present of this ancient capital.
The Great Temple or Templo Mayor was devoted to Huitzilopochtli and Tlaloc, measuring approximately 100 by 80 m (328 by 262 ft) at its base, dominated the Sacred Precinct. Construction of the first temple began sometime after 1325, and it was rebuilt six times. The temple was destroyed by the Spanish in 1521 to make way for the new cathedral. Today, the archeological site lies just to the northeast of the Zocalo, or main plaza of Mexico City, in the block between Seminario and Justo Sierra streets.
The Templo Mayor or Great Temple (called Hueteocalli by the Aztecs) dominated the central sacred precinct of the Aztec capital Tenochtitlan. Topped by twin temples dedicated to the war god Huitzilopochtli and the rain god Tlaloc it was a focal point of the Aztec religion and very center of the Aztec world. It was also the scene of state occasions such as coronations and the place of countless human sacrifices where the blood of the victims was thought to feed and appease the two great gods to whom it was dedicated.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes; sunscreen; mexican pesos for souvenirs, snacks and gratuities.
Adventure Tips
Wear comfortable footwear
Streets and archaeological sites involve uneven surfaces, so comfortable shoes are essential.
Bring water and sun protection
Any outdoor component can be hot and sunny, especially if visiting midday.
Arrive early to beat crowds
Starting early ensures a more spacious and engaging experience at popular sites.
Carry a camera
Capture the impressive artifacts and scenic ruins to remember your visit.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Urban sparrows and butterflies around the site.
- Wild parrots occasionally seen in nearby trees.
History
The Templo Mayor was the main temple of the Aztecs in their capital city of Tenochtitlán, built on the site of an earlier pyramid and used for religious ceremonies from the 14th to 16th centuries.
Conservation
Efforts are ongoing to preserve and restore the archaeological sites and artifacts, ensuring future generations can enjoy Mexico's rich heritage.
Select participants and date
Adventure Hotspots in Mexico City
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for exploring archaeological sites and city streets comfortably.
Sun hat or cap
Provides protection from the sun during outdoor tours.
Reusable water bottle
Stay hydrated while touring in warm weather.
Camera or smartphone with good camera
Capture the history and artifacts around you.