Elite Toltec structure and carved slabs discovered near Tula
Archaeologists from Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) have uncovered an elite Toltec-era structure and two carved stone slabs on the outskirts of the Tula Archaeological Zone in Hidalgo. The discovery was made during salvage work since May 2026 for a water treatment plant in the 16 de Enero neighborhood of Tula de Allende. The slabs likely belonged to Pyramid B, a key building at Tollan Xicocotitlan. The find provides insight into life around the city nearly a thousand years ago, after its peak between A.D. 900 and 1100, when communities continued to settle nearby, reusing its symbols and architecture.
Key facts
- INAH announced the discovery of an elite Toltec structure and two carved stone slabs near Tula.
- The find was made during archaeological salvage work for a water treatment plant in the 16 de Enero neighborhood of Tula de Allende.
- Work began in May 2026.
- The slabs are believed to have once belonged to Pyramid B.
- Pyramid B is one of the most emblematic buildings of the Tula Archaeological Zone.
- The discovery offers a new look at life around Tollan Xicocotitlan nearly a thousand years ago.
- The city's greatest splendor was between A.D. 900 and 1100.
- By the 12th century, the city had moved beyond its peak, but communities continued to settle around it.
Entities
Institutions
- National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH)
- Tula Archaeological Zone
Locations
- Hidalgo
- Tula de Allende
- 16 de Enero neighborhood
- Tollan Xicocotitlan
- Mexico