BILL & DOROTHY BELL
Exploring Mexico, one ancient city at a time
We are Bill and Dorothy Bell. Mexico Archeology brings together our travels, photographs and fascination with the ancient places of Mexico.
After decades of travelling the country, we still find ourselves taking the turn toward another archaeological site—or returning to one we thought we already knew.
Why we created Mexico Archeology
Standing in an ancient plaza is a very different experience from reading about it. The scale of a building, the surrounding landscape, the carved details and the light on the stone all help bring a place into focus.
We created this website to share that experience. Our aim is to help you discover archaeological sites across Mexico, understand a little of their history and make them part of your own travels.
Some of the places featured here are celebrated destinations. Others are quieter stops that can become the most memorable part of a journey. Both deserve time and attention.
Photography and the pleasure of looking closely
Our photographs are an essential part of the story. They record the places we have visited and the details that made us stop: an archway, a carved façade, a broad plaza or a temple framed by forest.
We hope the images encourage you to look beyond the best-known monument and notice the smaller things that make each site different.
What you will find here
Use Explore Sites to choose a destination, browse our state guides to plan a regional journey, or open the Mexico archaeological map to see where places fit along your route.
Our Ancient Cultures section and notes, explanations and terms provide background for what you see on the ground.
Our visits and researched coverage
Firsthand travel and original photography are the foundation of Mexico Archeology. When a page draws on our own visit, we say so. When we introduce a place we have not yet confirmed visiting, we identify it as researched coverage.
We have visited Templo Mayor, and it belongs with our firsthand sites. Our major sites still to explore page is a provisional list that will change as we confirm past visits and make new journeys.
Travel details can change between visits. Check current official information for opening hours, admission charges and access restrictions before setting out.
Our websites and Facebook community
OnTheRoadIn.com — On the Road in Mexico
Our companion website for exploring Mexico by road. Find practical travel information, routes, destinations and ideas to help connect an archaeological visit with the journey around it.
DriveMexicoMagazine.com — Drive Mexico Magazine
Discover more of Mexico through destination features, travel stories and places of interest. Visit the magazine for inspiration beyond the archaeological sites, from communities and culture to ideas for your next trip.
Facebook — On the Road in Mexico
Join our Mexico travel community to exchange experiences, ask questions, share photographs and hear from fellow travellers. It is a place to continue the conversation and discover ideas for future journeys.
Get in touch
Have a favourite archaeological site, a question or a story to share? Contact Bill and Dorothy.
There is always another place to discover. We hope these pages help you find yours.