Mexico is a land where history often lies just beneath the surface. From bustling cities to remote landscapes, ancient treasures are discovered in the most unexpected places.
Recently, workers in Hidalgo, Mexico, stumbled upon one such treasure — a pre-Hispanic step pyramid.
What started as routine highway construction quickly turned into a major archaeological find.
Archaeologists from Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) were called in after the discovery during the construction of the Pachuca-Huejutla federal highway near San Agustín Metzquititlán.
The pyramid, referred to as Structure No. 1, is linked to a pre-Columbian culture known as San Miguel, named after the nearby town.
Structure Reburied to Prevent Damage
This site, dating back to between 650 and 1350 AD, includes five sectors with at least ten mounds. Initial excavations have unearthed 155 artifacts, such as pottery, shells, and pieces of charred wood.
Researchers believe the settlement offers critical insight into life in the Sierra Alta region. Historical records indicate human activity in the Barranca de Metztitlán area as early as 14,000 years ago.
To preserve the pyramid, a stone wall several meters high was built around it, and the structure was reburied to prevent damage.
However, archaeologists say further investigation is needed to fully understand the cultural and historical significance of the site. Part of the pyramid remains buried under the highway, complicating future research efforts.
Héctor Labra Chávez, a tourism official from San Agustín Metzquititlán, stressed the importance of continued exploration.
“There are no known pre-Hispanic remains in this area,” he explained. “Deeper research could reveal much more about the region's history.”
