INAH uncovers ceremonial altar and human offerings near Tula's ancient Toltec capital

Archaeologists working just outside the famed archaeological zone of Tula have made a discovery that is already reshaping how we understand the ancient city. During ongoing salvage excavations tied to the construction of the Mexico City–Querétaro passenger rail line, specialists from Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) uncovered a small ceremonial altar—along with human offerings—that opens a new window into the urban and ritual life of the Toltecs. The find, located roughly 300 meters beyond the perimeter of the protected archaeological site, suggests that the influence of Tula extended further than previously mapped. It also reinforces the critical role of preventive archaeology in safeguarding Mexico’s cultural heritage as modern infrastructure projects move forward. “This kind of discovery reminds us that the past is still very much beneath our feet,” said Mexico’s Secretary of Culture, Claudia Curiel de Icaza.