Aztec archaeological site near Tenochtitlán closes due to lack of funds and COVID-19
A recently discovered Aztec tunnel in Mexico, part of the ancient Albarradón de Ecatepec dam system, will be reburied due to funding shortages and the pandemic. The 8.4-meter-long tunnel, found two years ago by the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), contains 11 petroglyphs and stucco reliefs depicting a bird of prey, a flint, and other subjects. The Mexican government had planned to make it a tourist attraction but now cites insufficient resources and low vaccination coverage (under 20%) as reasons for closure. INAH had previously warned of vandalism and looting risks if left open, proposing a viewing corridor and window. With allocated funds exhausted, research has also ceased. The tunnel will be covered with earth until conditions improve.
Key facts
- The Aztec tunnel is located near the ancient capital Tenochtitlán in Mexico.
- It is part of the Albarradón de Ecatepec, a dam system protecting against floods.
- The tunnel is 8.4 meters long and contains 11 petroglyphs and stucco reliefs.
- The discovery was announced by INAH two years ago, in 2019.
- The Mexican government cited pandemic and lack of funds for closure.
- Vaccination coverage in Mexico is below 20% of the population.
- The tunnel will be covered with earth to prevent damage and theft.
- Research on the site has been suspended due to exhausted funds.
Entities
Institutions
- National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH)
- Mexican government
Locations
- Tenochtitlán
- Mexico
- Ecatepec
- Chiiconautla