Results for "Spanish conquest"
Landmarks Encyclopedia Entry 1777317545
The Great Pyramid of Cholula, located in the state of Puebla, Mexico, is the largest pyramid in the world by volume and the second-largest pyramid by base area, after the Great Pyramid of Giza. ## Overview The Great Pyramid of Cholula, also known as the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, is an ancient Mesoamerican temple complex situated in the city of Cholula, Puebla, Mexico. This massive structure, built by the Toltecs and later modified by the Aztecs, is a testament to the advanced engineering and architectural skills of the pre-Columbian civilizations of Mesoamerica. The pyramid's sheer size, intricate design, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in archaeology, history, and culture. The Great Pyramid of Cholula rises 177 feet (54 meters) above the surrounding landscape, covering an area of approximately 1.5 million square feet (139,355 square meters). Its base is a square, measuring 1,800 feet (550 meters) on each side, while its original height was estimated to be around 230 feet (70 meters). Despite its impressive dimensions, the pyramid's design is remarkably symmetrical, with a series of nine platforms and a central pyramid. ## History/Background The construction of the Great Pyramid of Cholula began around 100 AD, during the Toltec period, and continued until the 16th century, when the Aztecs modified the structure. The pyramid was initially dedicated to the Toltec deity Quetzalcoatl, a feathered serpent god associated with wisdom, fertility, and creation. Over time, the Aztecs added their own architectural features, including a temple dedicated to the god of the sun, Huitzilopochtli. The pyramid's history is marked by several significant events. In 1521, the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés arrived in Cholula, and the pyramid was converted into a Catholic church. The structure suffered significant damage during the colonial period, and many of its original features were destroyed or altered. In the 19th century, the Mexican government undertook a series of restoration projects to preserve the pyramid's integrity. ## Key Information * **Dimensions:** The Great Pyramid of Cholula measures 177 feet (54 meters) in height, with a base area of approximately 1.5 million square feet (139,355 square meters). * **Volume:** The pyramid's volume is estimated to be around 4.4 million cubic meters, making it the largest pyramid in the world by volume. * **Age:** The pyramid's construction began around 100 AD and continued until the 16th century. * **Materials:** The pyramid is built using limestone and volcanic rock. * **Inscriptions:** The pyramid features several inscriptions, including the famous "Calendar Stone," which dates back to the 16th century. ## Significance The Great Pyramid of Cholula is a cultural and historical treasure that holds significant importance for Mexico and the world. As the largest pyramid in the world by volume, it is a testament to the advanced engineering and architectural skills of the pre-Columbian civilizations of Mesoamerica. The pyramid's intricate design and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in archaeology, history, and culture. INFOBOX: - Name: Great Pyramid of Cholula - Type: Ancient Mesoamerican temple complex - Date: 100 AD - 16th century - Location: Cholula, Puebla, Mexico - Known For: Largest pyramid in the world by volume TAGS: Mesoamerica, Toltecs, Aztecs, Quetzalcoatl, Huitzilopochtli, Hernán Cortés, Spanish conquest, Mexican history, Archaeology, Architecture, Cultural heritage.
GeographyLandmarks Encyclopedia Entry 1780098744
The Great Pyramid of Cholula is the largest pyramid in the world by volume, located in the Mexican state of Puebla, and is a significant archaeological site that showcases the advanced engineering skills of the ancient Mesoamericans. ## Overview The Great Pyramid of Cholula, also known as the Pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, is an enormous stepped pyramid located in the town of San Pedro Cholula, Puebla, Mexico. This massive structure is not only the largest pyramid in the world by volume but also one of the most impressive archaeological sites in the Americas. The pyramid stands at an impressive 177 feet (54 meters) tall and covers an area of approximately 1.5 million square feet (139,355 square meters). Its sheer scale and intricate design make it a must-visit destination for history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of Mesoamerica. The pyramid's construction is believed to have begun in the 1st century AD and continued until the 9th century AD, with the main structure being built during the Toltec period. The pyramid's original name was "Tlachihualtepetl," which translates to "the man-made mountain." Over time, the pyramid was renamed after the feathered serpent deity Quetzalcoatl, who was revered by the Aztecs. ## History/Background The construction of the Great Pyramid of Cholula is a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the ancient Mesoamericans. The pyramid's massive size and intricate design required the labor of thousands of workers, who used stone, brick, and mortar to construct the structure. The pyramid's base is a square, measuring approximately 1,800 feet (550 meters) on each side, and its sides are aligned with the cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west). The pyramid's original height was estimated to be around 230 feet (70 meters), but over time, the structure has suffered from erosion and damage, reducing its height to its current 177 feet (54 meters). The pyramid's history is closely tied to the rise and fall of various Mesoamerican civilizations, including the Toltecs, the Aztecs, and the Spanish conquistadors. The pyramid was an important center of worship and sacrifice, with the Aztecs believing that the pyramid was a gateway to the underworld. The Spanish conquistadors, led by Hernán Cortés, arrived in Cholula in 1519 and were met with resistance from the local population. The conquistadors eventually captured the city and destroyed many of its structures, including the pyramid's original temple. ## Key Information - **Volume:** The Great Pyramid of Cholula has a volume of approximately 4.4 million cubic meters, making it the largest pyramid in the world. - **Height:** The pyramid stands at an impressive 177 feet (54 meters) tall. - **Base:** The pyramid's base is a square, measuring approximately 1,800 feet (550 meters) on each side. - **Materials:** The pyramid is constructed from stone, brick, and mortar. - **Labor:** The construction of the pyramid required the labor of thousands of workers. - **Timeline:** The pyramid's construction began in the 1st century AD and continued until the 9th century AD. ## Significance The Great Pyramid of Cholula is a significant archaeological site that showcases the advanced engineering skills of the ancient Mesoamericans. Its sheer scale and intricate design make it a must-visit destination for history buffs, archaeology enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the rich cultural heritage of Mesoamerica. The pyramid's history is closely tied to the rise and fall of various Mesoamerican civilizations, including the Toltecs, the Aztecs, and the Spanish conquistadors. The pyramid's legacy extends beyond its impressive architecture, as it serves as a reminder of the complex and fascinating history of the region. INFOBOX: - Name: Great Pyramid of Cholula - Type: Archaeological site, pyramid - Date: 1st century AD - 9th century AD - Location: San Pedro Cholula, Puebla, Mexico - Known For: Largest pyramid in the world by volume TAGS: Archaeology, Mesoamerica, Toltecs, Aztecs, Spanish conquest, Pyramid, Cholula, Mexico, History, Culture, Engineering.