Archaeologists uncover Toltec altar with human skulls during rail construction in Mexico
During salvage operations for a 232km railway connecting Mexico City and Querétaro, which is currently 10% complete and set to commence in April 2025, a pre-Hispanic stone altar was uncovered near Tula Chico in Hidalgo, Mexico. This altar, dating back to AD 900-1150, spans one square meter and contains various stones, ceramic artifacts, and obsidian. Human remains found at its base imply it was used in rituals. Situated 300 meters from Tula Chico, the area likely served local elites. Víctor Francisco Heredia Guillén from INAH highlighted that there are 12 archaeological sites along the route. In October, petroglyphs prompted an 8km detour, as noted by President Claudia Sheinbaum. The altar's future is uncertain due to community resistance and ongoing excavations.
Key facts
- A Toltec stone altar with four human skulls was discovered near Tula Chico in Hidalgo, Mexico
- The altar dates to AD900-1150 and measures one square meter with three levels
- It was found during salvage work for a new 232km rail line between Mexico City and Querétaro
- Construction on the rail line began in April 2025 and is 10% complete
- The altar contained human remains, ceramic objects, and obsidian, suggesting ritual use
- Petroglyphs at El Venado site caused an 8km rerouting of the rail line in October
- The altar is 300 meters from Tula Chico and adjacent to Tula Grande, the main Toltec ceremonial center
- Future of the site is uncertain as the train route may change due to preservation and community factors
Entities
Artists
- Víctor Francisco Heredia Guillén
- Dan M. Healan
- Claudia Sheinbaum
- Gerardo Peña
Institutions
- National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH)
- The Art Newspaper
- Tulane University
Locations
- Mexico
- Hidalgo
- Mexico City
- Querétaro
- Tula Chico
- Tula de Allende
- El Venado
- Tula Grande
- New Orleans
- United States