Sunday, November 4, 2007

Teotihuacan!


The third largest pyramid in the world was no match for the Ballard Band of Explorers!

This weekend our family visited the site of Teotihuacan with a friend and co-worker, Kent (the man sporting the Indiana Jones Fedora - prepared to explore)! We chose to climb the Temple of the Sun which is the third largest pyramid in the world! The children were excited to explore and were as intent on the top as is usual for this little band! We climbed to the top while enjoying the breathtaking, panoramic views on the Temple's plateaus.

The name "Teotihuacan" means literally; "The place where men became Gods" and here it is said that the "Colossal pyramids were painted red to glow under the Mexican Sun". We were able to see a remnant of the original color during our expedition! This amazing city originally had occupied approximately 10 square miles and was one of the greatest populated cities of it's time. The city grew from around the time of Christ and reached it's peak between 150 B.C. and 450 A.D.; although the city grew and had much to offer by the time it was discovered by the Aztecs it was deserted. In 400 A.D. the city was the sixth largest in the world - yet about 300 years later the civilization fell - leaving Teotihuacan deserted.

Our little band of explorers looks forward to returning and climbing more pyramids and learning more about this fascinating culture... you should come and join us!

4 comments:

Jacqui said...

Wow! It looks like you all had a great time. Great views too! We wish we could have been there to share in your adventure. Maybe some day!!! We love and miss you all!

GramGrampsGazette said...

What an adventure! To think of all the people that built those marvels and lived back in that time! It's so fascinating!Love the picture of the four kids looking out over the other pyramid! Glad you all had a great time --maybe when we visit we can go there too!

Lana said...

wow! that looks so neat!

Joyismygoal said...

What fun memories you are building this will be such a fun history for the Ballard bunch.