Zazacatla facts for kids
Zazacatla is an ancient city site in Mesoamerica, located in the central part of Mexico. It is found in Xochitepec, a town in the state of Morelos. This site dates back to a time called the mid-Formative period, which was many centuries ago.
Archaeologists first started digging here in 2006. They found the site hidden beneath a modern shopping and housing area. Zazacatla is about 13 kilometers (8.1 miles) south of Cuernavaca, the capital city of Morelos. It is also about 40 kilometers (25 miles) south of Mexico City. When experts from Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) began their work, they discovered signs of the ancient Olmec culture. This was the first time Olmec influences were found in this part of Morelos.
Exploring Zazacatla
Only a small part of Zazacatla's main ceremonial area has been explored so far. This area covers about 9,000 square meters (around 2.2 acres). However, experts believe the entire site is much larger, possibly covering about 2.5 square kilometers (nearly one square mile).
People lived in Zazacatla between 800 and 500 BCE. This means it was around at the same time as La Venta, a major Olmec city located about 400 kilometers (250 miles) to the east.
Olmec Connections
Archaeologists have found several stone sculptures at Zazacatla. These sculptures look like Olmec "priests" or important leaders. The discovery of these sculptures, along with buildings built in the Olmec style, makes experts wonder how much the Olmec culture influenced Zazacatla.
Archaeologist Giselle Canto explained that the people of Zazacatla likely adopted Olmec styles. This happened when their society changed from being simple and equal to having different social levels and rulers. She said that the new leaders needed special symbols to show their power over others who used to be their equals.
In January 2007, the governor of Morelos, Marco Adame Castillo, offered to help protect the site. He also wanted to include Zazacatla in the state's plans for tourism and cultural heritage. He hoped that a tourism project would begin there once more archaeological work was done.
See also
In Spanish: Zazacatla para niños
