Major archaeological sites still on our list
This is a provisional list. We distinguish these places from sites we have personally visited and photographed. As our travel record is confirmed, we will update it.
After decades of travelling Mexico, we have visited a great many archaeological sites—but certainly not all of them. Mexico’s archaeological heritage is simply too extensive for that. These important places remain on our list for deeper exploration.
We have visited Templo Mayor; it belongs in our firsthand coverage and is not included below.
Sites to explore
Tlatelolco
Mexica ceremonial and commercial centre.
Cuicuilco
An early ceremonial centre in the Basin of Mexico.
Tula
Known for its monumental Atlantean warrior figures.
Xochicalco
A fortified hilltop city.
Cacaxtla–Xochitécatl
Important ceremonial sites, with remarkable murals at Cacaxtla.
Cantona
A vast city with numerous ball courts.
Cañada de la Virgen
A ceremonial complex in a striking landscape.
Peralta
A major archaeological site of central Mexico.
Tzintzuntzan
The Purépecha capital overlooking Lake Pátzcuaro.
Paquimé
The remarkable northern centre at Casas Grandes.
Cuarenta Casas
Northern cliff dwellings.
Comalcalco
A Maya city known for fired-brick construction.
Mayapán
An important later Maya political centre.
Dzibilchaltún
A long-occupied Maya settlement near Mérida.
Aké
Monumental stone architecture east of Mérida.
Acanceh
Ancient structures within a modern town.
Oxkintok
An important western Yucatán site.
Dzibanché
A major Maya centre in southern Quintana Roo.
Oxtankah
An archaeological site near the Bay of Chetumal.
Help us add to the list
Share suggestions through our Mexico travel community. Before planning a visit, check official information: inclusion here does not mean a site is currently open.