The Historical Significance of Cuahilama: An Overlooked Ceremonial Center
Cuahilama, a hill and archaeological site located in the southeastern part of Mexico City, near the neighborhood of Santa Cruz Acalpixca, holds a rich tapestry of history that spans several pre-Hispanic civilizations. Despite its significant cultural heritage, Cuahilama has not received the attention it deserves, both from the academic community and the authorities responsible for its preservation.
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Location and Early Inhabitants
Cuahilama, also known as “Cuahilama Cerro” or Cuailama, is situated on “prolongación 2 de abril” Street, nestled between the streets of Cacalanco and 3 de mayo, close to the town of Santa Cruz Acalpixca in the Xochimilco borough. The area was first inhabited by Preclassical groups such as the Cuicuilco, Copilco, and Tlatilco (1500-200 BCE), followed by the Teotihuacano during the Classical period (ca. 200 BCE-700 CE).
The Founding of Acalpixca and the Xochimilcas
Around 1254 CE, the Xochimilcas, having migrated from Aztlán to the Anáhuac Valley, founded Acalpixca under the leadership of their first lord, Acatonalli. It was during this time that Cuahilama began to emerge as a significant ceremonial center. Between 1450 and 1521 CE, Santa Cruz Acalpixca, though a small village, served as the capital of the area and witnessed the creation of numerous petroglyphs that have become a defining feature of Cuahilama.
Agricultural Innovations and Expansion
The Xochimilcas were primarily farmers who innovated the chinampa system—an agricultural method that involved placing wooden rods filled with organic dirt over water to create floating gardens. This technique allowed them to cultivate corn, chili, beans, pumpkin, flowers, and other crops, ensuring their survival and prosperity. From Cuahilama, they expanded their territory across the southern shore of the Xochimilco lake and beyond.
Archaeological Significance
Cuahilama is home to an observatory, a shrine, and a pre-Hispanic causeway, along with residential quarters and a military training camp. The site is characterized by its Aztec cultural elements and is believed to have been a ceremonial center associated with agricultural fertility and solar worship. The petroglyphs found on the hillside, dating back to between 1200 and 1500 CE, are particularly noteworthy. These engravings, which include representations of stars, constellations, and figures, are thought to be linked to fertility cults and the veneration of deities.
Current Challenges
Despite its historical and cultural significance, Cuahilama faces numerous challenges, including vandalism, looting, and the apathy of both authorities and the public. The archaeological remains are at risk of being lost to urban growth and lack of protection. The Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia (INAH) has been criticized for its inadequate response to the site’s deterioration, and the petroglyphs remain unprotected and damaged.
Conclusion
Cuahilama stands as a testament to the rich pre-Hispanic history of Mexico City and the ingenuity of the Xochimilcas. However, its significance has been overshadowed by other archaeological sites, and it has not received the attention or protection it deserves. It is imperative that efforts be made to preserve this cultural treasure for future generations, ensuring that its history is not forgotten.
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