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The Great Pyramid of Cholula is the largest pyramid in the world by volume and the second-largest pyramid by base area, located in the state of Puebla, Mexico. ## Overview The Great Pyramid of Cholula, also known as the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, is an ancient Mesoamerican pyramid built by the Toltecs and later modified by the Aztecs. This massive structure is a testament to the ingenuity and architectural skills of the pre-Columbian civilizations that once flourished in Mexico. The pyramid stands at an impressive 177 feet (54 meters) tall and has a base that covers an area of 1,800 feet (550 meters) by 1,800 feet (550 meters). Its sheer size and grandeur make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture. The pyramid's original purpose is still a topic of debate among historians and archaeologists. While some believe it was built as a temple dedicated to the feathered serpent god Quetzalcoatl, others argue that it was constructed as a tomb for a Toltec ruler. Regardless of its original purpose, the pyramid has undergone significant changes over the centuries, with the Aztecs adding a temple on top and the Spanish conquistadors using it as a quarry for building materials. ## History/Background The construction of the Great Pyramid of Cholula is believed to have begun in the 1st century AD, during the Toltec period. The pyramid was built in several stages, with the first stage consisting of a small pyramid dedicated to the god Quetzalcoatl. The Toltecs later expanded the pyramid, adding more layers and modifying its original design. The Aztecs, who conquered the Toltecs in the 12th century, further modified the pyramid, adding a temple on top and incorporating it into their own pantheon of gods. The pyramid's history is marked by several significant events, including the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century. The Spanish used the pyramid as a quarry for building materials, stripping it of its original stone and using it to construct churches and other buildings in the region. Despite this destruction, the pyramid remains an important cultural and historical landmark, attracting visitors from around the world. ## Key Information * **Dimensions:** The pyramid stands at an impressive 177 feet (54 meters) tall and has a base that covers an area of 1,800 feet (550 meters) by 1,800 feet (550 meters). * **Volume:** The pyramid has a volume of approximately 4.4 million cubic meters, making it the largest pyramid in the world by volume. * **Materials:** The pyramid is constructed from limestone and volcanic rock, with some of the original stone still visible today. * **Temple:** The pyramid has a temple on top, which was added by the Aztecs and dedicated to the god Quetzalcoatl. * **Population:** The nearby city of Cholula has a population of over 250,000 people, making it one of the largest cities in the state of Puebla. ## Significance The Great Pyramid of Cholula is an important cultural and historical landmark, attracting visitors from around the world. Its sheer size and grandeur make it a testament to the ingenuity and architectural skills of the pre-Columbian civilizations that once flourished in Mexico. The pyramid's significance extends beyond its architectural importance, as it also represents the rich cultural heritage of the region. INFOBOX: - Name: Great Pyramid of Cholula - Type: Mesoamerican Pyramid - Date: 1st century AD - Location: Cholula, Puebla, Mexico - Known For: Largest pyramid in the world by volume TAGS: Mesoamerican Pyramids, Toltecs, Aztecs, Quetzalcoatl, Cholula, Puebla, Mexico, Ancient Architecture, Cultural Heritage.