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Great Pyramid of Cholula

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Great Pyramid of Cholula (Mexico)

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The Great Pyramid of Cholula, also known as Tlachihualtepetl, is an architectural marvel that holds the title of the largest pyramid in the world by volume. Its massive base, measuring roughly 400 by 400 meters, makes it significantly larger in area than the Great Pyramid of Giza. Built in multiple stages over a period of nearly a thousand years, the structure represents the contributions of various Mesoamerican cultures, including the Olmec-Xicalanca and Toltec peoples. Over time, the pyramid became overgrown with vegetation and soil, appearing to the Spanish conquistadors as a natural hill. In the 16th century, the Spaniards famously constructed the Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios on its summit, creating a visually memorable juxtaposition of indigenous and colonial architecture. Visitors can explore the intricate labyrinth of tunnels excavated by archaeologists within the pyramid, providing a rare look at the successive layers of its construction. The site remains a bustling cultural and religious destination, offering panoramic views of the surrounding valley and the majestic, snow-capped Popocatépetl volcano in the distance.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Mar–May.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C141618202119181817161514
Rain mm91016256816615516817374207

📋 Practical info

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Visiting
The Great Pyramid of Cholula is now an archaeological park open to the public. You can climb the hill and visit the church built on top.
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Typical hours
The archaeological park is typically open daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The church on top has its own, often shorter opening hours.
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Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the site, including the pyramid and church. Drone use without permission is not permitted.
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Time needed
Visiting the site and the tunnels under the pyramid takes about two hours. Allow extra time for climbing to the church and enjoying the views.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby town of Cholula and its many churches. The archaeological site of Cacaxtla is also worth a day trip.
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Getting there
The pyramid is located on the outskirts of Cholula, about 15 kilometers from Puebla. It is reachable by bus or taxi from Puebla; parking is available.
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Insider tip
Make sure to visit the underground tunnels that give insight into the pyramid's original structure. A local guide explains the history vividly.

Geography

Coordinates
19.05750, -98.30140

Facts

  • The total volume is estimated at 4.45 million cubic meters.
  • It is approximately four times larger than the Great Pyramid of Giza.
  • The pyramid was dedicated to the god Quetzalcoatl.
  • Over 8 kilometers of tunnels have been excavated for archaeological study.
  • The church on top was constructed in 1594.
  • Construction phases began in the 3rd century BC and lasted until 900 AD.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

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Sights in the town Great Pyramid of Cholula (12)

Parque Loro Puebla🎡 recreation

Park named after the Puebla parrot, adjacent to the Great Pyramid of Cholula.

🕒 Mo-Su 10:00-17:30💶

Garabatos Club de Comedia🎭 culture

Comedy club and theatre in Cholula offering live performances.

Museo de Sitio de Cholula🏛 museum

Museum in Cholula presenting archaeological finds from the Cholula site.

AMOR Y GALERIA🏛 museum

Museum in Cholula likely dedicated to art and love themes.

Casa de la cultura Momoxpan🎭 culture

Community cultural center in the Momoxpan district near the Great Pyramid of Cholula.

zócalo Santiago Momoxpan📍 landmark

The main plaza in Santiago Momoxpan, a public square in Cholula.

Iglesia de Santa Maria Tonanzintla⛪ religious

Church in Cholula dedicated to Santa María, renowned for its ornate Baroque interior.

Jenkins🎭 culture

Theatre in Cholula named Jenkins, hosting performances.

Galeria Mercado Negro🏛 museum

Contemporary art gallery in the Mercado Negro neighborhood beside the Great Pyramid of Cholula.

Zona arqueológica de Cholula📍 landmark

Archaeological zone in Cholula, home to the massive Great Pyramid.

Edificio Rojo (Zona Arqueológica de Cholula)🏺 historical

The Red Building is a structure painted red in the Cholula archaeological zone.

Patio de Los Altares (Zona Arqueológica de Cholula)🏺 historical

Outdoor altar complex within the Cholula archaeological zone, next to the pyramid.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How long does a visit to the pyramid take?
You should plan about 1.5 to 2 hours for the site and the tunnels.
Is there an entrance fee?
Yes, there is a fee for visiting the museum and the archaeological site.
Is the pyramid wheelchair accessible?
Only partially; unfortunately, the tunnels are not suitable for wheelchairs.
What is the best time of day to visit?
Morning is less crowded and the temperatures are more pleasant.
Is photography allowed on the pyramid?
Yes, photography for personal use is permitted everywhere.
Great Pyramid of Cholula: where is it located?
Great Pyramid of Cholula is located in Mexico.
Great Pyramid of Cholula: what is there to see?
Highlights include Parque Loro Puebla, Garabatos Club de Comedia, Museo de Sitio de Cholula.
Great Pyramid of Cholula: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, May.
Great Pyramid of Cholula: why is it worth visiting?
The Great Pyramid of Cholula, also known as Tlachihualtepetl, is an architectural marvel that holds the title of the largest pyramid in the world by volume.
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