Quetzalpapálotl facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Quetzalpapálotl |
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Courtyard of the Palacio de Quetzalpapalotl
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| General information | |
| Type | Architectural complex |
| Architectural style | Teotihuacán |
| Location | Teotihuacán, State of Mexico, Mexico |
| Coordinates | 19°41′52.14″N 98°50′43.79″W / 19.6978167°N 98.8454972°W |
| Technical details | |
| Floor area | 4,500 m² |
The Quetzalpapálotl complex is a set of ancient ruins found in Teotihuacán, Mexico. It is most famous for the Palace of Quetzalpapálotl and the beautiful stone carvings in its main courtyard. Nearby buildings also have old wall paintings, called murals, that are still visible today. The main entrance to this complex faces the important Avenue of the Dead. It is located southwest of the famous Pyramid of the Moon.
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What is the Quetzalpapálotl Complex?
The buildings you see today were built a very long time ago, between 450 and 500 AD. These structures were built on top of even older buildings from around 250 to 300 AD. Because of where the palace is located and how detailed its art is, experts believe it was home to a very important priest or leader. It might also have been used for special ceremonies.
The name Quetzalpapálotl comes from the carvings of mythical birds on the pillars in the courtyard. The name comes from the Nahuatl language. Quetzalli means "precious feather," and pāpālōtl means "butterfly."
When was the Quetzalpapálotl Complex discovered?
The complex was rediscovered in 1962 by an archaeologist named Jorge Acosta. Between 2009 and 2011, the complex was carefully restored. This work was done by the Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia, which is a group that protects Mexico's history.
What Murals Can You See?
Inside a part of the complex called the Palace of the Jaguars, you can find amazing wall paintings. These murals show feathered felines, which are like big cats, holding conch shells. There are also pictures of a god with goggles. This god is often linked to Tlaloc, the rain god of the later Aztec people.
Beneath the palace, there is a hidden area called the Temple of the Feathered Conches. Here, you can see paintings of a green bird. There are also images of things connected to water and life.
See also
In Spanish: Quetzalpapálotl para niños
