Nahualac Pond

View of the pond and the volcano Porden (Atlas Obscura User)

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This shrine was built during prehispanic times as a way to honor the Mesoamerican creation myth, where Cipactli (a crocodile that represents the earth) was floating on water. From his body, all the land and sky were created.

A tetzacualco (shrine) sits at the middle of Nahualac Pond. Archaeologists believe that the place may be a miniature model of the universe, built to represent Cipactli and his role in primordial time and space. The pond and shrine are located at the foothills of the Iztaccihuatl Volcano, at 3,870 meters above sea level.

Know Before You Go

It is an 8 hour hike from the nearest parking spot. I recommend going from Amecameca rather than from San Rafael town, as it it known to be a bit unsafe for hiking

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