Almost two years ago, I climbed my way to the top of the Pirámide del Sol at Teotihuacán for the very first time. I had dreamed of visiting these ancient pyramids, once the site of a powerful pre-Hispanic empire, ever since I first read about them as a child.
My suegro and my cuñada were brave enough to indulge me that summer when I came to Mexico to visit family all by myself and practically begged them to take me.
Reaching the top was a feat I thought impossible when I stood at the bottom looking up, and I had to rest at each level on the way up and assure myself I could make it up there. The steps are deceivingly steep and with little to hold on to to brace yourself, it can be sort of daunting to someone who isn't used to climbing. But as I slowly made my way up the pyramid, there were little old ladies and women toting newborn babies in their arms passing me on their quest to reach the top. I knew I had to keep going.
And when I finally made it to the top, it took my breath away. I felt truly alive. And immensely proud that I'd managed to climb to the top – despite my shaky knees.
- Have you ever climbed the pyramids at Teotihuacán?
Jessica says
Good job Maura! I also climbed the pyramids (in 2009) it was crazy beautiful at the top! I agree with you though, it was a bit daunting, but so worth it. We had a guide to show us around, and it was fascinating to learn all the science and precision that went behind building these pyramids. The hidden acoustic features around 'Temple of Quetzalcoatl' was the coolest things to learn!
Joe Ray says
El Sol! Magical place indeed. I was there 2 years ago with my cousin who lives less than an hour away from Teotihuacan. I also was reminded that my mother had climbed it for the first time about 8 years prior, when she was in her mid-70s with 2 of my cousins. I had forgotten her telling me about her climb, which she also enjoyed very much.
I sat at the top of the pyramid and not only took in the sights but had an amazing meditation. I opened my eyes and saw a butterfly fluttering around between my cousin and I. Truly magical. Especially the echoes that clapping your hands from halfway up the pyramid makes throughout La Avenida de Los Muertos.
I also have some shots of me wearing El Santo's mask at the base of the pyramid as well as at the top. El Santo is from the town of Tulancingo, Hidalgo, which is where my cousin lives. There is a large statue in the town that rivals those of revolutionary war heroes.