Tula: The Ancient Capital of the Toltec in Mexico
Tula was the capital of the ancient Toltec civilization in Mexico. From the 8th to the 13th century CE, the Toltec expanded their dominion into southern Mexico, exerting a significant influence over the entire Central American region. The peak of Tula’s prosperity occurred between 900 and 1200 CE.
The ancient site near the city of Tula is divided into two major sections. Archaeological evidence indicates that the central area of Tula features a large plaza surrounded by the Pyramid of the Feathered Serpent. Other architectural structures include a pair of pyramid-like palaces, with a high altar situated in the center of the plaza. Although the scale of the pyramids in Tula is relatively small, they are prominently adorned, featuring a continuous passageway connecting two richly decorated chambers.
The Plaza and the Pyramid of the Feathered Serpent (Image: homepage.smc.edu)
Tula means “great city,” and while the ancient city is renowned for its grandeur, archaeologists have yet to determine the exact timeline of its construction. Answers to these questions seem elusive in the historical records of Mexico, often found only within the treasure troves of mythology. From these legends, archaeologists have uncovered the processes of formation, development, and destruction of Tula, which are intertwined with a legendary duel.
The mythological tale passed down in Central America and Mexico tells that:
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Ancient Statue of a Man in Tula (Image: raphaelk.co.uk) |
In ancient times, a brilliant god named Cutraketer arrived by boat to Mexico. Cutraketer was a fair-skinned man, highly educated, tall, handsome, with a broad forehead and a thick beard. He wore a long white robe that reached the ground. He introduced various forms of art and knowledge to Mexico, creating a civilized lifestyle for the local people and ushering in a golden age of culture and civilization. He taught the Central American natives how to use writing, established a calendar system for them, and imparted construction techniques and stonemasonry secrets. The people revered him as the father of mathematics, metallurgy, and astronomy, revealing the hidden mysteries of plants to them. He established fair laws, promoted monogamous marriage, and counseled on virtuous living. Most importantly, he condemned the practice of human sacrifice, advocating instead for offerings of flowers and fruits to the gods.
Yaejisi could not tolerate such knowledge. At that time, the nemesis of Cutraketer emerged. The deity representing the chaotic and dark forces, Taycike, caused upheaval. He was young, possessed boundless power, and aimed to make America a fierce domain. He appeared unexpectedly, cold and ruthless, exhibiting extreme brutality. In American mythology, he is described as a ghost with murderous intent, carrying a magical mirror. Through this mirror, he could conceal himself from afar and observe human activities. He initiated an epic and unprecedented duel with Cutraketer.
This fierce life-and-death duel took place in Tula; however, brutality triumphed over righteousness. Cutraketer was expelled from Tula and forced to leave Mexico. Legend has it that he fled to the coast, boarded a small boat, and as he departed, he told the people that he would one day return to vanquish the cruel deities and usher in a new era.
Although Tula is not very ancient, with a history of just over 1,000 years, its mythology and legends are known to have existed long before that. Therefore, archaeologists and cultural historians believe that this great duel is connected to the historical context.
Ancient Statues in Tula (Image: raphaelk.co.uk)
