Cihuatán

Cihuatán was a large city located in the extreme south of the Mesoamerican cultural area. Established in the eighth or ninth century, the city was only occupied for a short period. About 100 to 150 years after its founding, Cihuatán was destroyed by a massive fire. But during its brief existence, the city grew to a significant size.

Today, the Cihuatán Archaeological Park covers some 300 hectares, in which there are three main areas: ceremonial centers, a large platform where noble families’ homes were located, and an area where the common people lived and worked. The city was also likely surrounded by agricultural lands. 

The western ceremonial center includes one of Cihuatán’s most striking features: a large pyramid.