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Nahualac Pond

A shrine in the middle of this pond represents a Mesoamerican creation myth.

San Rafael, Mexico

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Patricio Prden
View of the pond and the volcano   Porden (Atlas Obscura User)
  Porden (Atlas Obscura User)
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This shrine was built during prehispanic times as a way to honor the Mesoamerican creation myth, where Cipactli (a crocodile that represents the earth) was floating on water. From his body, all the land and sky were created.

A tetzacualco (shrine) sits at the middle of Nahualac Pond. Archaeologists believe that the place may be a miniature model of the universe, built to represent Cipactli and his role in primordial time and space. The pond and shrine are located at the foothills of the Iztaccihuatl Volcano, at 3,870 meters above sea level. 

Related Tags

Archaeology Shrines Folklore Mythology Pond Volcanoes

Know Before You Go

It is an 8 hour hike from the nearest parking spot. I recommend going from Amecameca rather than from San Rafael town, as it it known to be a bit unsafe for hiking

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Added By

Porden

Published

October 17, 2023

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