Pyramid of the Sun facts for kids
Front view of the Pyramid of the Sun
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| Location | Mexico State |
|---|---|
| Region | Mesoamerica |
| Type | Pyramid, Temple |
| Part of | Teotihuacan |
| Length | 220 meters (720 feet) |
| Width | 230 meters (760 feet) |
| Volume | 1,184,828.3 cubic meters (41,841,817 cubic feet) |
| Height | 65.5 meters (216 feet) |
| History | |
| Founded | 200 CE |
| Abandoned | 750 CE |
| Periods | Mesoamerican classic |
| Cultures | Teotihuacan |
| Site notes | |
| Condition | Protect by UNESCO |
| Ownership | Cultural heritage |
| Management | World Heritage Committee |
| Public access | Yes |
| Third largest ancient pyramid in the world, the second largest is the Pyramid of Giza and the largest is the Great Pyramid of Cholula which is 90 kilometers away | |
The Pyramid of the Sun is the biggest pyramid in the ancient city of Teotihuacán. This old city is about 40 kilometres (25 mi) north of modern-day Mexico City. The Aztecs gave the building its name, Pyramid of the Sun. They found the city of Teotihuacán abandoned. We do not know the original name of this amazing building.
Contents
What is the Pyramid of the Sun?
The Pyramid of the Sun is a huge structure. Its base is about 225 metres (738 ft) long on each side. The pyramid stands about 65 metres (213 ft) tall today. It is the second largest pyramid in ancient America. Only the Great Pyramid of Cholula is bigger.
Where is it located?
The pyramid is in the middle of Teotihuacán. It sits between the Pyramid of the Moon and an area called the Ciudadela. It is also on a main road known as the Avenue of the Dead. A mountain called Cerro Gordo is nearby. The pyramid is part of a very large and important area in the city.
How was the Pyramid Built?
Builders constructed the pyramid in two main stages. The first stage finished around 100 AD. At this point, the pyramid was almost as tall as it is now. In the second stage, workers added an altar and a large statue to the top. Sadly, these parts no longer exist.
What did it look like?
The pyramid was once covered with special plates. These plates were made of a material called calcite. They showed pictures of animals, like jaguars. Over time, these plates have disappeared.
What was its purpose?
The pyramid was likely a temple for one of Teotihuacán's gods. However, we do not know which god it was for. We also do not know exactly how people worshipped there.
Archaeologists have found graves of children inside the pyramid. Some believe these children were sacrificed. This was likely done to make the building sacred.
Images for kids
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The Sun pyramid
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Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan
See also
In Spanish: Pirámide del Sol para niños
