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Archaeological sites · Tlaxcala, Tlaxcala
Cacaxtla and Xochitécatl
Nearby archaeological sites: the colorful murals of Cacaxtla’s Great Basament, under a large shelter, and the pyramids of Xochitécatl.
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 Cacaxtla and Xochitécatl
Cacaxtla sits on a hill overlooking the Tlaxcala and Puebla valley, in the municipality of Nativitas, about 20 km from the capital. It was a ceremonial center of the Olmeca-Xicalanca people, flourishing between 650 and 950 CE. The Gran Basamento, a platform of palaces and courtyards, is protected by a metal roof covering more than 10,000 square meters.
The murals were discovered in 1975 and retain vivid colors: the Battle Mural shows warriors wearing jaguar and bird costumes, and other panels depict man-jaguar and man-bird figures with Maya influence. Visitors walk along elevated walkways above the structures.
A roughly 1 km path links Cacaxtla to Xochitécatl, another, older archaeological zone with the Pyramid of the Flowers and the Spiral Pyramid atop a hill, offering views of the La Malinche, Popocatépetl and Iztaccíhuatl volcanoes. Both sites have on-site museums.
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 for both sites.
Best time
In the morning during the dry months, from October to May. Check opening days and hours with INAH before you go.
How to get there
In San Miguel del Milagro, Nativitas, about 20 km from Tlaxcala and about 30 km from Puebla, reachable by car, taxi or bus to Nativitas.
Tip
Bring a hat and water for the walk to Xochitécatl, which is outdoors.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Cacaxtla and Xochitécatl
What can you see in Cacaxtla?
The pre-Hispanic murals with vivid colors on the Gran Basamento, such as the Battle Mural, all under a large protective roof.
How far is Tlaxcala from Cacaxtla?
About 20 km, in Nativitas.
Are Cacaxtla and Xochitécatl together?
Yes, a roughly 1 km path connects the two archaeological zones.