A Mexican highway project unexpectedly led to the revelation of an ancient pyramid buried beneath the road. This astonishing find has opened up new avenues of exploration and understanding of Mexico's rich history. Crews working on the Pachuca-Huejutla highway in central-eastern Mexico stumbled upon a pre-Hispanic pyramid that partially dipped below the existing roadway. This remarkable structure, now known as Structure 1 in the San Miguel settlement, consists of at least 10 mounds in five different sections and has already yielded over 150 artifacts during excavations. These artifacts range from ceramics and shells to lime floors and lithic materials, providing valuable insights into the past.Uncovering the Ancient Pyramid
Experts from Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) have determined that the pyramid dates back to the pre-Hispanic era, specifically between the Epiclassic period and the Late Postclassic period (650 to 1519 A.D.). The discovery of this pyramid represents a significant piece of the larger San Miguel settlement, which likely thrived in the area. It may also be connected to the Metzca lordship, a society that inhabited the Sierra Alta region. Without the construction of the highway, this ancient site would have remained hidden for centuries. The use of drones to take photos and create a 3D model of the site allowed for a detailed examination of the pyramid before it was reburied to ensure its conservation.The Significance of the Discovery
The data generated by this archaeological record will play a crucial role in our understanding of human occupation in the Sierra Alta region of Hidalgo, particularly in the Barranca de Metztitlán area. According to historiography, the first settlements in this region date back at least 14,000 years. This discovery not only adds to our knowledge of Mexico's past but also highlights the importance of preserving and studying these ancient sites. The fact that part of the pyramid's base dips beneath the existing roadway means that excavation work will be required to fully uncover and understand its significance. However, the future of these excavations is uncertain due to a 45 percent reduction in funding for the INAH in their 2025 budget.The Mysterious Future of the Site
When work on Structure 1 of San Miguel will resume remains a mystery. Archaeologists are eager to return and continue their exploration, but the lack of funding poses a significant challenge. The potential for uncovering more artifacts and gaining a deeper understanding of the San Miguel settlement and the Metzca lordship is great. This discovery joins a handful of recent incidents where ordinary objects or activities have led to unexpected revelations about Mexico's past. It serves as a reminder of the hidden treasures that may still be waiting to be discovered beneath the surface.Tim Newcomb, a journalist based in the Pacific Northwest, covers a wide range of topics including stadiums, sneakers, gear, and infrastructure. His interviews with renowned figures such as Roger Federer in Switzerland, Kobe Bryant in Los Angeles, and Tinker Hatfield in Portland have provided unique perspectives on various fields. His coverage of this ancient pyramid discovery adds another layer to his diverse portfolio.>
