Sun 03 August 2025:
The pyramid, located in the Ihuatzio Archaeological Zone, was one of the best-preserved remnants of the P’urhépecha Kingdom, the only empire never conquered by the Aztecs. The P’urhépecha culture still survives today.
Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) blamed recent extreme weather, noting that intense heat followed by drought created cracks in the structure, allowing water to seep in and making collapse inevitable.
Post-collapse inspections revealed damage to six levels of the pyramid, including its outer wall, core, and support structures. A second pyramid at Ihuatzio remains intact for now.
The incident mirrors the recent collapse of Utah’s iconic “Double Arch” rock formation in the U.S., with experts warning that both events highlight the devastating impact of human-driven climate change on cultural and natural heritage worldwide.
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The Ihuatzio Archaeological Zone in Michoacán, Mexico, features two significant rectangular-based pyramids, known as yácatas, built on an artificially leveled plateau near Lake Pátzcuaro. Constructed by the Purépecha people between 1200 and 1530 CE, with earlier Nahuatl occupation from 900 CE, these pyramids were dedicated to deities Curicaueri and Xaratanga.
The site, part of the Plaza de Armas, served as a ceremonial center and astronomical observatory, covering about 50 hectares. Unique features include elevated walkways called huatziri and a 250-meter-long “King Road” for transporting the Purépecha ruler.
In July 2024, heavy rains caused a partial collapse of one pyramid’s southern facade due to drought-induced cracks, prompting restoration efforts by Mexico’s INAH. The site’s sculptures, like coyotes and Chac Mools, highlight its cultural significance.
SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES
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