Search Nerddpedia

Landmarks Encyclopedia Entry 1780499945

The Great Pyramid of Cholula is the largest pyramid in the world by volume, located in the state of Puebla, Mexico, and is a significant archaeological site and a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the ancient Mesoamericans. ## Overview The Great Pyramid of Cholula, also known as the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, is an imposing structure that dominates the landscape of the state of Puebla, Mexico. Rising to a height of 177 feet (54 meters), this massive pyramid is not only the largest in the world by volume but also one of the most impressive examples of Mesoamerican architecture. Built by the Toltecs in the 1st century AD, the pyramid was originally dedicated to the feathered serpent god Quetzalcoatl and was later converted into a Catholic church by the Spanish conquistadors. Today, the pyramid is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. The pyramid's sheer scale is awe-inspiring, with a base that covers an area of over 1,800 feet (550 meters) in length and width. The structure is composed of over 4 million tons of stone, including limestone, granite, and obsidian, which were transported from nearby quarries using simple yet effective tools. The pyramid's design is characterized by a series of stepped platforms, with each level slightly smaller than the one below it, creating a pyramidal shape that tapers to a point at the top. ## History/Background The construction of the Great Pyramid of Cholula is believed to have begun in the 1st century AD, during the reign of the Toltec ruler, Quetzalcoatl. The Toltecs were a powerful and advanced civilization that flourished in central Mexico from the 10th to the 12th centuries AD. They were known for their sophisticated engineering skills, which enabled them to build complex cities, roads, and irrigation systems. The pyramid was likely built as a temple dedicated to Quetzalcoatl, who was revered as a god of wisdom, fertility, and war. Over time, the pyramid was modified and expanded by subsequent civilizations, including the Aztecs, who conquered the region in the 14th century AD. The Aztecs converted the pyramid into a temple dedicated to their own gods, including the feathered serpent god Quetzalcoatl. In the 16th century AD, the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Mexico and converted the pyramid into a Catholic church, which it remains to this day. ## Key Information * **Dimensions:** The pyramid measures 177 feet (54 meters) in height and has a base that covers an area of over 1,800 feet (550 meters) in length and width. * **Volume:** The pyramid has a volume of over 4.4 million cubic meters, making it the largest pyramid in the world. * **Materials:** The pyramid is composed of over 4 million tons of stone, including limestone, granite, and obsidian. * **Construction:** The pyramid was built using simple yet effective tools, including stone mauls and wooden wedges. * **History:** The pyramid was built by the Toltecs in the 1st century AD and was later modified and expanded by the Aztecs and Spanish conquistadors. ## Significance The Great Pyramid of Cholula is a significant archaeological site and a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the ancient Mesoamericans. The pyramid's sheer scale and impressive design have made it a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. The pyramid's history and cultural significance are also important, as it reflects the complex and often tumultuous history of the region. INFOBOX: - Name: Great Pyramid of Cholula - Type: Pyramid - Date: 1st century AD - Location: Puebla, Mexico - Known For: Largest pyramid in the world by volume TAGS: **Pyramids**, **Mesoamerican**, **Toltecs**, **Aztecs**, **Spanish Conquistadors**, **Archaeology**, **UNESCO World Heritage Site**, **Tourism**, **Engineering**