Explore Tehuacalco: Millennial History and Astronomy in Guerrero
Destinations 24/02/2026
Are you thinking of visiting Guerrero? If so, we assure you that you won't regret this decision. From its incredible Pacific beaches to its vibrant urban life in destinations like Acapulco and Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo, you'll fall in love with it all. Furthermore, if you're a lover of culture and history, there's a major attraction you can't miss: Tehuacalco. Visiting this archaeological zone near Acapulco will allow you to explore its incredible pyramids, impressive mountain ranges, and learn about the history of the Yope culture.
Within the context of the Yope culture, also known as the Tlapaneca culture, Tehuacalco is known as its first settlement. It's impressive how, due to the region's high seismic activity, the buildings were meticulously constructed using hewn stone blocks. As a place of worship, this site exudes a very special energy, symbolized by its sacred hills and the cult of the sun.
If you've ever wondered, “What does the word Tehuacalco mean?” Etymologically, Tehuacalco originates from Nahuatl. Its meaning gives rise to several interpretations of the site's former functions: “Place of the sinkholes,” “place of the stone box,” and “place of the sacred water.” This led historians to believe that, due to its location among natural pools, the shape of its structures, and its intended use for ritual purposes, it was once a ceremonial site.
As mentioned, Tehuacalco is located in a mountainous area, 50 minutes from the city of Chilpancingo. Its location is strategic; two hours from the coast, it sits between two hills, providing a clear view of the site. The area enjoys a cooler and drier climate than the coastal region.
The main attraction of Tehuacalco is undoubtedly its Great Pyramid. This pyramid, dedicated to solar rituals, served as the central axis alongside the Central Plaza. In this plaza, the existence of more than 50 petroglyphs stands out—inscriptions on stone that represent star maps and astronomical landmarks. Research has revealed the mathematical precision of these drawings, thus reflecting an important part of Yope history.
In the Yope culture, caves are also shrouded in mysticism. There was a belief that caves were portals to the underworld and, moreover, the source of fertility. Alongside them, you can visit underground ritual spaces where offerings were made to bring rain. The magic of these visits lies in observing how the constructions respected the natural geological formations. Without a doubt, Tehuacalco is the ideal place for adventurers who dream of experiencing a day trip in the mountains, surrounded by pre-Hispanic history within a tropical environment.
As we have seen so far, in Tehuacalco, life was largely governed by the movement of the stars. This allowed the civilization to measure time based on the sun's path through archaeoastronomy. So much so that, with the help of the mountainous horizons, they controlled a giant solar calendar. This, in addition to their daily tasks, helped them to control the planting and harvesting seasons; in this way they found a perfect balance as a society.
Hills like "El Capulín", besides decorating the landscape, served as astronomical instruments. Solar alignments, visualized with the help of the hills, served to mark temporal milestones, a key feature of archaeoastronomy. As a visitor, you will be amazed by the scientific precision this civilization required for such milestones.
The main route visitors take from Acapulco is usually the Autopista del Sol (Highway of the Sun) heading north. It is recommended to leave early to avoid the sometimes intense midday heat. We also recommend wearing comfortable shoes, bringing water to stay hydrated, and using biodegradable sunscreen to protect yourself from unexpected weather.
If possible, it is ideal to go with a guide. This way, you can immerse yourself in the history, archaeology, and culture of an ancient civilization and understand “What does the word Tehuacalco mean?”
A visit like exploring Tehuacalco requires a lot of effort! At Park Royal Beach Acapulco, we strive to offer you every comfort so you can enjoy your stay during this trip. Enjoy our comfort and luxury after a journey back in time with a refreshing drink overlooking Santa Lucía Bay. Don't miss the chance to experience Park Royal Beach Acapulco at your own pace.
The Tehuacalco Archaeological Zone: A Unique Ceremonial Site
Within the context of the Yope culture, also known as the Tlapaneca culture, Tehuacalco is known as its first settlement. It's impressive how, due to the region's high seismic activity, the buildings were meticulously constructed using hewn stone blocks. As a place of worship, this site exudes a very special energy, symbolized by its sacred hills and the cult of the sun.
Origin of the name “Tehuacalco” in Nahuatl
If you've ever wondered, “What does the word Tehuacalco mean?” Etymologically, Tehuacalco originates from Nahuatl. Its meaning gives rise to several interpretations of the site's former functions: “Place of the sinkholes,” “place of the stone box,” and “place of the sacred water.” This led historians to believe that, due to its location among natural pools, the shape of its structures, and its intended use for ritual purposes, it was once a ceremonial site.
Where is Tehuacalco located?
As mentioned, Tehuacalco is located in a mountainous area, 50 minutes from the city of Chilpancingo. Its location is strategic; two hours from the coast, it sits between two hills, providing a clear view of the site. The area enjoys a cooler and drier climate than the coastal region.
What to see on your archaeological tour
Pyramids, plazas, and petroglyphs
The main attraction of Tehuacalco is undoubtedly its Great Pyramid. This pyramid, dedicated to solar rituals, served as the central axis alongside the Central Plaza. In this plaza, the existence of more than 50 petroglyphs stands out—inscriptions on stone that represent star maps and astronomical landmarks. Research has revealed the mathematical precision of these drawings, thus reflecting an important part of Yope history.
Caves and Ritual Spaces
In the Yope culture, caves are also shrouded in mysticism. There was a belief that caves were portals to the underworld and, moreover, the source of fertility. Alongside them, you can visit underground ritual spaces where offerings were made to bring rain. The magic of these visits lies in observing how the constructions respected the natural geological formations. Without a doubt, Tehuacalco is the ideal place for adventurers who dream of experiencing a day trip in the mountains, surrounded by pre-Hispanic history within a tropical environment.
Archaeoastronomy and Calendar in Tehuacalco
How did they measure time?
As we have seen so far, in Tehuacalco, life was largely governed by the movement of the stars. This allowed the civilization to measure time based on the sun's path through archaeoastronomy. So much so that, with the help of the mountainous horizons, they controlled a giant solar calendar. This, in addition to their daily tasks, helped them to control the planting and harvesting seasons; in this way they found a perfect balance as a society.
The Role of Hills and Solar Alignments
Hills like "El Capulín", besides decorating the landscape, served as astronomical instruments. Solar alignments, visualized with the help of the hills, served to mark temporal milestones, a key feature of archaeoastronomy. As a visitor, you will be amazed by the scientific precision this civilization required for such milestones.
How to Plan Your Visit from Acapulco
The main route visitors take from Acapulco is usually the Autopista del Sol (Highway of the Sun) heading north. It is recommended to leave early to avoid the sometimes intense midday heat. We also recommend wearing comfortable shoes, bringing water to stay hydrated, and using biodegradable sunscreen to protect yourself from unexpected weather.
If possible, it is ideal to go with a guide. This way, you can immerse yourself in the history, archaeology, and culture of an ancient civilization and understand “What does the word Tehuacalco mean?”
Relax by the sea after exploring Tehuacalco!
A visit like exploring Tehuacalco requires a lot of effort! At Park Royal Beach Acapulco, we strive to offer you every comfort so you can enjoy your stay during this trip. Enjoy our comfort and luxury after a journey back in time with a refreshing drink overlooking Santa Lucía Bay. Don't miss the chance to experience Park Royal Beach Acapulco at your own pace.
