Is it Worth Visiting San Juan Teotihuacán?

If you’re planning a trip to Mexico City, then you might want to consider adding San Juan Teotihuacán to your itinerary. This ancient city is located just outside of the capital and is known for its impressive pyramids, rich history, and cultural significance. But is it worth the trip? In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what San Juan Teotihuacán has to offer, and whether it’s worth the visit.

The History of San Juan Teotihuacán

San Juan Teotihuacán is located in the state of Mexico, around 50 km northeast of Mexico City. The city is the site of some of the largest and most impressive pyramids in the world, including the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. The pyramids were built by the Teotihuacán civilization, which was one of the most powerful and influential cultures in pre-Columbian Mexico.

The city was founded around 200 BCE, and it flourished from around 200-650 CE. At its peak, San Juan Teotihuacán was home to around 100,000 people, making it one of the largest cities in the world at the time.

What to See in San Juan Teotihuacán

One of the main attractions of San Juan Teotihuacán is its pyramids. The Pyramid of the Sun is the largest pyramid in the city, standing at over 200 feet tall. Visitors can climb to the top of the pyramid, which offers stunning views of the surrounding area. The Pyramid of the Moon is another impressive structure, and it is located at the end of the Avenue of the Dead, which runs through the heart of the city.

In addition to the pyramids, there are many other structures and buildings to see in San Juan Teotihuacán. The city is home to numerous temples, palaces, and residences, many of which have been partially restored. The Temple of the Feathered Serpent is one of the best-preserved structures in the city, and it is known for its intricate carvings and impressive architecture.

There is also a museum located near the entrance to the city, which houses many artifacts and exhibits related to Teotihuacán culture and history.

Is it Worth the Visit?

So, is San Juan Teotihuacán worth the visit? The answer to that question depends on a few factors. If you’re interested in history and ancient cultures, then San Juan Teotihuacán is definitely worth a visit. The city offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Teotihuacán people, and the pyramids and other structures are truly awe-inspiring.

However, if you’re not particularly interested in history, then you may not enjoy your visit as much. The city can be quite crowded and hot, especially during peak tourist season, which may not be appealing to some visitors. Additionally, the city is located outside of Mexico City, which may make it less convenient to visit if you’re staying in the city and don’t want to travel too far.

Ultimately, whether or not San Juan Teotihuacán is worth the visit will depend on your personal interests and preferences. However, if you do decide to make the trip, be sure to bring plenty of water and sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes, and be prepared for a lot of walking and climbing.

Conclusion

San Juan Teotihuacán is a truly unique and fascinating destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the ancient Teotihuacán civilization. While it may not be for everyone, those who are interested in history and architecture will find plenty to explore in this ancient city. If you’re planning a trip to Mexico City, consider adding San Juan Teotihuacán to your itinerary and discover the wonder and beauty of this amazing destination.

An Insider’s Guide to San Juan Teotihuacán: Discovering Hidden Gems

San Juan Teotihuacán is a gem of a city, nestled just outside of Mexico City. It is a city that is steeped in history, culture, and tradition. With its stunning archaeological sites, delicious culinary scene, vibrant local music, and art scene, San Juan Teotihuacán is a true traveler’s paradise. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a regular, this city has something to offer everyone. Here is an insider’s guide to San Juan Teotihuacán that will take you beyond the tourist brochure.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Brochure

When it comes to San Juan Teotihuacán, most visitors are aware of the UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site, Teotihuacán. However, there are hidden gems around the city that are often overlooked. One such place is the Cacaxtla Archaeological Site. It is a fascinating archaeological site with bright murals that tell a story of pre-Columbian Mexico. Another hidden gem is the town of San Martin de las Piramides where you can witness the local way of life and a beautiful stone church. For art lovers, visit the Casa de las Columnas, a historic building that houses the Félix Teódulo Guzmán Museum. It has an extensive collection of contemporary and traditional Mexican art.

Dining Spots: Experience the City’s Culinary Delights

San Juan Teotihuacán is not just famous for its archaeological wonders, but it will also please your taste buds. The city’s traditional cuisine reflects its rich cultural history, from the pre-Columbian era to the modern-day. Make sure to try some of the local delicacies like barbacoa, a slow-cooked meat dish, and pulque, a traditional fermented alcoholic beverage. Savor the surprising flavors of Chilacayote, a squash grown locally in the area, and served in a variety of dishes. One of the most famous culinary spots in the city is the Carnitas el Chayito, where the meat falls off the bone and comes with locally made tortillas. Or if you are vegetarian, make sure to visit La Gruta, where they serve meatless yet delicious local cuisine in an underground natural cave!

Cultural Experiences: Discover Traditions and Customs

A visit to San Juan Teotihuacán is incomplete without experiencing its local culture. From exploring cultural institutions to attending vibrant festivals, there’s something for everyone in this city. One such institution is the Centro Cultural Mexiquense, where you can witness traditional and contemporary art on display. For music lovers, make sure to attend the local bands that perform throughout the city’s public parks or the National Museum of Popular Culture. If you’re lucky enough, you might catch one of San Juan Teotihuacán’s many festivals, such as the Night of the Walkers, a pre-Hispanic tradition when the citizens walk the streets in elaborate costumes.

Local History: Uncovering Fascinating Stories

San Juan Teotihuacán’s history is rich and fascinating. One story is that the famous Teotihuacán pyramids were built by aliens, with the Sun Pyramid fittingly resembling a sun disc. For history buffs, you can walk through the Museum of the Site, where you’ll learn about the Teotihuacán society which dominated a large part of ancient Mexico and is famous for its groundbreaking urban design. For those looking for a personal touch, visit the family-run Maguey Mezcal House Museum where you can learn the art of making mezcal, fermented juice extract of the maguey plant.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Unique Adventures

Looking to experience something off the beaten path in San Juan Teotihuacán? Try hiking up Cerro Gordo, where hikers and climbers can enjoy gorgeous vistas of the Teotihuacán Valley while exploring the natural surroundings. Another spot to visit is the Grotto of the Butterflies, a sanctuary that shelters around 7,000 million butterflies that migrate to the area from Canada to escape the cold weather.

In conclusion, San Juan Teotihuacán is a city with a lot to offer. From hidden gems to delicious cuisine, vibrant culture, and rich history, this city has everything a traveler could ask for. Plan your visit now and discover the many wonders that this city has to offer.