Plizio Visual Lab
Great Pyramid of Cholula
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.
- Location: Mexico
- Top sights: Parque Loro Puebla · Garabatos Club de Comedia · Museo de Sitio de Cholula
- Nearby: Apizaco (19 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar–May.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 14 | 16 | 18 | 20 | 21 | 19 | 18 | 18 | 17 | 16 | 15 | 14 |
| Rain mm | 9 | 10 | 16 | 25 | 68 | 166 | 155 | 168 | 173 | 74 | 20 | 7 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
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
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Great Pyramid of Cholula (12)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How long does a visit to the pyramid take?
Is there an entrance fee?
Is the pyramid wheelchair accessible?
What is the best time of day to visit?
Is photography allowed on the pyramid?
Great Pyramid of Cholula: where is it located?
Great Pyramid of Cholula: what is there to see?
Great Pyramid of Cholula: when is the best time to visit?
Great Pyramid of Cholula: why is it worth visiting?











