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Tlapacoya (archeological site)
19.3017° N, -98.9128° E
About
Tlapacoya is an important archaeological site in Mexico, located at the foot of the Tlapacoya volcano, southeast of Mexico City, on the former shore of Lake Chalco. Tlapacoya was a major site for the Tlatilco culture. Tlapacoya is known in particular for Tlapacoya figurines. These sophisticated earthware figurines were generally created between 1500 and 300 BCE and are representative of the Preclassic Period. Tlapacoya was also a manufacturing center for so-called "Dragon Pots" (see photo below). These flat-bottomed cylindrical bowls have white or buff surfaces incised with almost abstract Olmec-style drawings, generally of were-jaguars.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Obsidian blade dating
c. 21,250–25,000 BP
Hearths and middens with faunal remains
c. 22,000 BP
Bones dated
24,000 BP (±4000); 21,700 BP (±500)
Tlatilco figurines produced
1500–300 BCE
Beatriz Barba master's thesis
1955
Directly dated human skull
9730 ± 65 BP
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Burial and Funerary Structures
Industrial and Craft Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Environmental and Natural Features
Food Production and Processing Features
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
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