Tepexi el Viejo facts for kids

Tepexi el Viejo is an ancient archaeological site in Mexico. It is located southeast of the city of Puebla. The name "Tepexi el Viejo" comes from the Nahuatl language. It means "split rock" or "steep place." This name describes the area well, as it has many rocky features.

History of Tepexi el Viejo

Tepexi el Viejo was once the center of an important lordship. A lordship was like a small kingdom or a powerful area ruled by a leader. People lived here for a very long time, starting around 2013 BC. They continued to live and build at Tepexi el Viejo until the Spanish arrived in Mexico.

Experts have studied the buildings and pottery found at the site. They believe the area changed over time. The site was especially important between 1300 AD and the time of the Spanish Conquest.

Design of the Fortress

The main part of Tepexi el Viejo is a strong, walled fortress. This fortress was built in a very smart location. It sits where two deep ravines meet. These ravines are like very deep valleys, about 140 meters (460 feet) high. One of these ravines has the Xamilpa or Lazamilpan river flowing through it. This river is a branch of the Atoyac River.

The location was perfect for defense. The high walls and deep ravines made it hard for enemies to attack. The site has a large wall that goes around the main structures. Inside, there are open squares and special mounds used for ceremonies. All these features suggest that Tepexi el Viejo was not just a town, but also a very important military fortress.

See also

In Spanish: Tepexi el Viejo para niños