A massive structure, and more proof that enormous projects don't necessitate enormous modern tools. The pyramid is 720 feet by 760 feet, and over 246 feet tall right now. But these are not its original dimensions. The Sun Pyramid was somewhat smaller on each side when it was first built, then enlarged later. In the early 20th century, a misguided attempt at "restoring" the temple to its original dimensions was launched. A fifth level was added to the pyramid's original four. The Pyramid of the Sun is at the center of a vast complex of ruins, including the Moon Pyramid, temples, some 2,000 apartments and a canal. The entire area is riddled with tunnels, and it is believed that is where the 1,000,000 cubic feet of red volcanic rock used to build the pyramid came from. It is also believed that the pyramid's location was considered sacred, as it was built on top of a cave where some scholars think religious ceremonies were held. More religious rituals took place at the top of the pyramid where a temple once stood. The area was devastated about 750 by fire, and the city that once supported between 150,000 and 200,000 people never recovered.
This structure should not be confused with a Mayan pyramid. The Mayan and Teotihuacán civilizations were different.
1987: The area is designated a UNESCO World Heritage site.
1998: The (U.S.) National Geographic Society and the (U.S.) National Science Foundation begin excavations at the site.
September, 2002: Scientists discover what they call the "Governor's burial chamber." It contains a number of statues carved out of green rock, and also the skeletons of pumas, eagles, wolves, and humans. Archaeologists think these were sacrifices to the gods.
