PXL_20250424_211337719

Sat, 14 Feb 2026 07:49:22 +0100

XOCHICALCO

This ancient city, located in the Valley of Morelos reached its maximum splendor as a result of Teotihuacan's
decline. It consolidated its power during the Epiclassic (AD 650-900) and was abandoned around 1100 in con-
sequence of internal rebellions. It is regarded as the cradle of the veneration and deification of Quetzalcoatl,
a god of major importance for later cultures, such as the Toltec and Mexica. The city was built on the summit of several
hills, modified by massive earthworks including pits and artificial terraces. The rugged terrain of its peaks made
it possible to build a fortified city, protected by guard posts and with a spacious Citadel with pyramidal platforms, palaces, and ballcourts.
The growth of Xochicalco resulted from its strategic location, which permitted it to establish
trade with the regions of Michoacan, Guerrero, Oaxaca, the Maya area, and the Gulf and Pacific coasts.
The architectural iconography related with warfare, the astronomy, and the refined material culture,
which included complex cosmogonic messages, such as the reliefs on the Feathered Serpent Pyramid, made this
center a model of Mesoamerican cultural synthesis and of the rise of militaristic cities.

THE CREATOR

The creator, as this sculpture has been called, depicts a bearded adult and
with fangs, kneeling on the left leg and attached with tubular earrings and a
elaborate touch. It is associated with fertility and the divine origin of dynasties
rulers of Xochicalco since it has two penises, with representations of leaves of
poop, which climb up behind his arms and run down his back, knotting themselves in the
chest and descending, one toward the thigh and the other to the left forearm.