Tenayuca Archaeological Zone

The birthplace of the Chichimecas in the Valley of Mexico

AREA

What Makes It Special?

Tenayuca was the capital of the Chichimeca people before the rise of the Mexica. Its impressive pyramidal base, featuring a double staircase and the remains of a coatepantli (wall of serpents), is one of the oldest in the Valley of Mexico and reflects the fusion of Toltec and Tepanec influences.

Did You Know…?

The site was rediscovered in 1925 by archaeologists such as Eulalia Guzmán and Enrique Juan Palacios. Its Great Temple, with serpent sculptures guarding the steps, is considered one of the direct precursors to the Mexica Great Temple in Tenochtitlán.

Don’t Miss

Take advantage of your visit to explore the small on-site museum, which displays artifacts found in the area, and take a stroll through the San Bartolo Tenayuca neighborhood, which still retains traces of its colonial past.

Plan Your Visit

Quetzalcoatl S/N, San Bartolo Tenayuca, 54150 Tlalnepantla, Méx.

Opening Hours:

Tuesday through Sunday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Admission:

General Admission: $145.00 pesos; Mexican citizens and foreign nationals residing in Mexico: $80.00 pesos

Recommended Visit Time:

1 to 1.5 hours

Ideal For:

StudentsAmateur archaeologistsFamilies interested in history

How to Get There

La Raza (Lines 3 and 5: Olive Green and Yellow) – 15-minute walk

Tenayuca Line 3 – 14-minute walk

Alamo – 10-minute walk

Take the Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas or Avenida Vallejo, as both lead to the northern area where the site is located.

Known for its twin temples; easily accessible from Mexico City via the Metrobús.

Available Services:

Archaeological Site

Outdoor Area

You Can Also Find It In:

Recommended Experience

We selected this experience for its direct connection to this museum or the surrounding cultural environment.

CDMX: Teotihuacan Balloon Flight with Optional Pyramids Tour

Fly over the Teotihuacan Pyramids on a hot-air balloon ride, and enjoy a champagne toast and breakfast. Upgrade with transportation options or a guided visit to the ruins and the Guadalupe Shrine.

Book securely with:

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