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Archaeological site · Cuernavaca, Morelos
Zona Arqueológica de Xochicalco
Fortified city on top of a hill, which flourished between the years 650 and 900, with the Pirámide de las Serpientes Emplumadas and an observatory in a cave.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Zona Arqueológica de Xochicalco
Xochicalco is located atop a hill about 38 km southwest of Cuernavaca. It flourished between the years 650 and 900, after the fall of Teotihuacan, as a political, commercial and religious center, protected by moats, walls and terraces. It has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1999.
The best-known work is the Pirámide de las Serpientes Emplumadas, with reliefs of snakes, priests and calendar glyphs around the base. There are also plazas, ballgame courts, palaces and temples at various levels of the hill.
A cave with an open tube in the roof functioned as an observatory: near noon, between late April and mid-August, sunlight enters through the opening and illuminates the floor. Visits to the observatory are scheduled and it may be closed; please check.
The site museum at the entrance displays sculptures and artifacts found. Climbing the structures is usually prohibited.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to three hours.
Best time
In the morning, before the sun gets strong; there is little shade at the site.
How to get there
About 38 km from Cuernavaca, via the highway toward Acapulco and a signed turnoff, by car, taxi or tour.
Tip
Bring a hat and water: the site is extensive and has little shade.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Zona Arqueológica de Xochicalco
Is Xochicalco a UNESCO World Heritage site?
Yes, since 1999.
What is the Pirámide de las Serpientes Emplumadas?
A temple with reliefs of snakes, priests and calendar glyphs at the base.
Can you climb the pyramids at Xochicalco?
Climbing on the structures is usually prohibited.