Gerardo Peña / INAH
Pre-Hispanic altar was accompanied by various human offerings, on the outskirts of the archaeological zone of Tula.
Archaeologists from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) of Mexico announced the discovery of a pre-Hispanic altar accompanied by various human offerings on the outskirts of the Tula archaeological zone, in the state of Hidalgo.
This occurred during archaeological preservation work associated with the construction of the train line of passengers between Mexico City and Querétaro.
The trace corresponds to a “momoztli” — a type of ceremonial altar — and would have belonged to the Tollan phase (between around 900 and 1150 AD), the period of greatest development of the ancient Toltec capital.
Located approximately 300 meters from the main monumental area, the altar could contribute to a better understanding of the urban organization of Tula, one of the most important cities in pre-Columbian Mesoamerica.
With about one meter side and composed of three levels low, the altar features a carefully crafted stone construction.
Offerings made up of human remains were identified on three of its sides — namely four skulls and long bones, possibly femurs —, suggesting ritual practices associated with the human sacrifice, as the magazine describes.
The researchers admit the hypothesis that there is a fourth similar set yet to be excavated.
In addition to the bone remains, objects such as ceramic containers, obsidian fragments and blades, elements usually linked to ritual contexts.
The arrangement of the skulls, including one that appears to be connected to the spinal column, raises the possibility that decapitation as part of the rituals performed at the site.
Experts indicate that the discovery of complete skeletons is unlikely, as evidence suggests that only parts of the bodies were used as offerings. The materials collected will now be analyzed in the laboratory to determine characteristics such as age, sex, possible pathologies and the origin of the individuals.
The excavation also revealed traces of walls that indicate the presence of a courtyard, possibly integrated into a elite residential complex.
This data reinforces the hypothesis that the altar played a relevant role in ceremonial practices associated with the dominant classes of Toltec society.
