The ancient Toltec capital of Tollan (900-1150 CE), Tula features one of the most striking archaeological sites in Mexico — four massive Atlante warrior statues (4.6 meters tall) standing atop the main pyramid of Tlahuizcalpantecuhtli (the Morning Star pyramid). The Toltecs were precursors to the Aztecs and profoundly influenced Mesoamerican cultures including the Maya. Tula is much less visited than Teotihuacan, making it a more intimate archaeological experience.
Highlights
- The four Atlante warrior columns atop Pyramid B
- Coatepantli (Serpent Wall) with carved rattlesnakes
- Burnt Palace (Palacio Quemado) with carved reliefs
- On-site museum with original artifacts
- The nearby Tula town for traditional Hidalgo state food
Tips for visiting
- Far fewer crowds than Teotihuacan — you may have the Atlantes almost to yourself
- Combine with a visit to the Tula town center and its colonial church
- Photography is excellent at the warrior statues — bring a wide-angle lens
- Morning light hits the Atlantes from the east for dramatic photography