Tepetlaoztoc facts for kids

Tepetlaoztoc or Tepetlaoxtoc is an ancient place in Mexico. Its name comes from the Nahuatl language, meaning "tepetate-cave place." Tepetate is a type of hard soil. This site was once a busy settlement for the Aztec and Nahua people. It was active during the Late Postclassic period of Mesoamerican chronology, and people continued to live there even after the Spanish arrived. You can find Tepetlaoztoc in the Valley of Mexico, northeast of another important ancient city called Texcoco.

What Was Tepetlaoztoc Like?

Tepetlaoztoc was an important settlement for the Aztec and Nahua people. It was part of the large Aztec world. The people living here were skilled farmers and builders. They created a complex society with their own rules and ways of life.

How Did We Learn About This Ancient Place?

For a long time, much of Tepetlaoztoc's history was hidden. But in the 1970s, scientists started to study the area. They used aerial photographs, which are pictures taken from airplanes. These photos showed amazing details of the land.

What Did Old Maps Show?

The aerial photos helped researchers see things that were drawn in very old books. These books are called Codex of Santa María Asunción and Codex Vergara. They are like ancient maps and records. The photos showed old field lines and irrigation systems. These were used by the people long ago to grow their crops.

What Happened to the Old Structures?

The photos also helped locate many small villages, called aldeas. These villages paid tribute to Tepetlaoztoc. You could even see the stone bases of their old houses. But by the 1990s, the area had changed a lot. New buildings and roads were built. Sadly, much of these ancient remains were destroyed by this new development.