We all know about the famous pyramids—like those at Giza, Chichen Itza, and Teotihuacán. But did you know there are also CIRCULAR “PYRAMIDS?” Yes, you read that right. Circular pyramids. And these ancient structures are some of the most incredible monuments I’ve ever come across. Hidden in the scenic valleys of Jalisco, Mexico, lies the ancient site of Guachimontones—a testament to the creativity and culture of pre-Columbian civilizations.
Once the center of the Teuchitlán culture, Guachimontones offers a fascinating glimpse into an ancient world shaped by remarkable architectural feats: its unique circular pyramids. If you’re captivated by ancient history and stunning structures, Guachimontones is a must-see. In this blog, we’ll explore the wonders of this ancient city, focusing on its distinct circular pyramids.
The Heart of the Teuchitlán Culture
Guachimontones is the largest Late Formative to Classic period (300 BCE to 450/500 CE) archaeological site in Jalisco. It was part of the thriving Teuchitlán culture, a society that flourished in the Tequila Valleys and built structures unlike anything seen elsewhere. The city is best known for its ceremonial buildings called guachimontones—the iconic circular pyramids that make this site so special.
These structures are different from anything else found in Mesoamerica. Unlike the familiar pyramids of Teotihuacan or the step pyramids of the Maya, the pyramids at Guachimontones are circular, with a series of concentric rings. While Guachimontones is one of several Teuchitlán cultural sites, its size and the unique design of its pyramids make it a standout.
The Unique Circular Pyramids of Guachimontones
The guachimontones pyramids are built in a bulls-eye shape, with a stepped core surrounded by circular terraces. These terraces once supported altars, small shrines, and poles used in ceremonial activities. The circular design is believed to represent unity, harmony, and the cosmos—values central to the Teuchitlán people.
A nice view showing a “circular” pyramid. Yayimages.
At the heart of Guachimontones lies “La Iguana”, one of the most impressive and well-preserved circular pyramids at the site. La Iguana is an architectural marvel with its concentric terraces and stepped structure. Unlike traditional pyramids that rise to a pointed top, La Iguana spreads outward in rings, almost like ripples in a pond—a unique and mesmerizing design.
The Purpose of the Guachimontones Pyramids
The circular pyramids were the heart of community and ceremonial life. Archaeologists believe these structures were used for rituals involving dance, offerings, and other community festivities. At the top of some of these pyramids, poles were erected for a ceremony called “Volador” (voladores de papantla), which still takes place in some parts of Mexico today. In this ritual, participants swing from the poles, symbolizing a connection with the divine. I have seen this live on numerous occasions and let me tell you, WOW!
Anyway, the unique design of these pyramids also suggests a connection to astronomy. Like other pre-Columbian cultures, the people of Guachimontones had a sophisticated understanding of the stars, and it’s thought that these structures may have been used to mark important solar events, aligning their religious practices with the cycles of nature.
A Unique Civilization in the Tequila Valleys
While Guachimontones is the most famous Teuchitlán culture site, it is just one of many spread across the Tequila Valleys. This area was the heart of a thriving civilization, surrounded by a landscape that provided the resources needed for agriculture, trade, and cultural development. The circular pyramids of Guachimontones reflect the sophistication and ceremonial importance of this region.
La Iguana Circular Pyramid. Wikimedia Commons.
Guachimontones existed long before the rise of the Aztecs, and its architectural achievements were just as impressive. The concentric pyramids are a clear reflection of the uniqueness of the Teuchitlán culture, standing out among the ancient structures of Mesoamerica.
Visiting Guachimontones Today
Visiting Guachimontones today is like stepping back in time. As you walk around the circular terraces of La Iguana and the other pyramids, you can almost picture the ceremonies and celebrations that once took place here. The site includes not only the pyramids but also ball courts and smaller mounds, giving visitors a better understanding of life in this ancient city.
For fans of ancient pyramids, Guachimontones offers a different take on what a pyramid can be. The circular pyramid is not just a fascinating architectural feature—it represents a worldview that emphasized community, balance, and a profound connection to the universe.
Why Guachimontones Matters
Guachimontones shows us just how diverse ancient Mesoamerican cultures were. Its circular pyramids challenge our ideas of what pyramids are supposed to look like, showing the creativity and unique approach of the people who built them. These structures represent a kind of sacred architecture that focused on community, unity, and their connection to the cosmos.
Most pyramids we know are rectangular or triangular, but the circular pyramids of Guachimontones are different. These weirdly shaped structures give us a fresh perspective on the achievements of ancient cultures and highlight the variety of pre-Columbian Mexico—a land full of unique societies, each with its own beliefs and ways of understanding the universe.
If you’re in Jalisco, make sure to visit Guachimontones. The site is open to visitors and features a small museum that explains the history and significance of the structures you’ll see. Standing on the concentric terraces of La Iguana, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the vision and culture of the people who built these circular wonders.
Final Thoughts
Guachimontones is a place that sparks curiosity. Its circular pyramids show us a time when people’s connection to the cosmos, community, and rituals was at the core of their lives. Unlike the towering pyramids of other Mesoamerican cultures, the circular pyramids here tell the story of a unique civilization with its own way of seeing the world.
If you’re fascinated by ancient architecture as I am, you will recognize that the circular pyramids of Guachimontones are more than just ruins—they show the creativity and diversity of ancient civilizations. This hidden gem in Mexico’s rich landscape of ancient wonders is waiting for you to discover.
