The recent examination of a massive mural discovered in 2018 in southern Mexico has allowed archaeologists to learn more about the beliefs of the Zapotecs, one of the main indigenous cultures in the country.
A site built on top of a hill
Located in the valley ofOaxaca, Monte Alban is considered one of the most spectacular archaeological sites in the Mexico. It was probably founded by the people olmec in the 5th century BC, but only reached its peak between 200 and 600 AD, during the period Zapotec.
The expansion of this matriarchal civilization was reflected in particular by the construction of the city ” satellite » ofAtzompa between the 7th and 9th centuries AD. Built on top of a hill overlooking the valley ofEtlathis would have allowed Zapotecs to defend themselves effectively against Mixtecsanother indigenous Mesoamerican people occupying the region.
It is in this ancient city that the Fresco nearly 15 meters long was unearthed. Carved in limestone and stucco, its raised glyphs include a quetzal (bird), monkeys, jaguars and various protective figures. The researchers also identified figurative and numerical representations of the year of the lizard (associated with the Mixtec calendar), as well as a quincunx, a geometric pattern made up of five points arranged in a cross.
Manifestations of the cosmic world
According to’National Institute of Anthropology and History of Mexicothese grounds constituted “ manifestations of the cosmic world » to which the construction of the Casa del Sur, whose main facade probably hosted the fresco, was supposed to respond. ” In general, this type of glyphs evoked power, supernatural entities protecting places and their timeless dimension. “, underlines the archaeologist Nelly Robles Garciawho supervised the work.
Originally measuring 30 meters long, the fresco would have been visible from a busy ceremonial square in the city ofAtzompawhich highlights its importance for Zapotecs.
When they gave up Atzompa around 850, it would have been partially destroyed. The researchers also explained that they discovered fragments of funerary urns nearby that could have been used as sacrificial offerings in order to ” demystify ” places.
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