Pyramid of the Moon
Archaeological Site Major Teotihuacan pyramid at the avenue's northern end
At the north end of Teotihuacan’s Avenue of the Dead, the Pyramid of the Moon is a stepped ceremonial platform facing the plaza. Visitors climb its terraces for views over the central complex and combine the visit with the site’s museums and Avenue.
The Pyramid of the Moon is a major ceremonial structure in the ancient city of Teotihuacan, located at the northwestern end of the Avenue of the Dead. It is the second-largest pyramid in the site and forms a principal focus of the city’s ritual core.
The pyramid was built in multiple stages, producing a stepped platform with a broad plaza in front that was used for public and ceremonial activities. Archaeological excavations have revealed offerings and constructed platforms associated with rituals and burials beneath and around the structure.
Teotihuacan’s urban plan places the Pyramid of the Moon at a central ceremonial axis aligned with other major monuments; the complex developed between the 1st and 7th centuries CE during the city’s growth. The pyramid is accessed from the central visitor route through the archaeological zone.
The site lies in the Basin of Mexico, northeast of modern Mexico City, within the extensive Teotihuacan archaeological park.
- Urban significance: It is the second-largest pyramid at Teotihuacan and sits at the northwestern end of the Avenue of the Dead, making it a focal point in the city's ceremonial axis.
What to See #
- Main pyramid and plaza: The pyramid forms the western terminus of the Avenue of the Dead within the Teotihuacan complex and fronts a large ritual plaza used for public ceremonies.
- Construction phases: Multiple construction phases and platforms visible in the pyramid's superstructure, reflecting successive building campaigns over several centuries.
How to Get to Pyramid of the Moon #
The Pyramid of the Moon is inside the Teotihuacan archaeological site in the State of Mexico, northeast of Mexico City. From Mexico City take regular buses to Teotihuacan from Terminal de Autobuses del Norte (buses signed to “Pirámides”); on arrival walk into the site-the Pyramid of the Moon sits at the northern end of the Avenue of the Dead and is a short walk from the main entrance.
By car follow the signs to Teotihuacan/”Pirámides” from Mexico City and park at the site car parks before entering on foot.
Tips for Visiting Pyramid of the Moon #
- Arrive at site opening to climb or photograph before the midday heat and peak crowds; the Pyramid of the Moon sits at the north end of the Avenue of the Dead, so start early and work northward through the main plaza.
- For the classic panorama, climb the Pyramid of the Sun (when open) to look north toward the Pyramid of the Moon and the symmetrical layout of Teotihuacan; combine an early visit with the on‑site museum to better understand the complex before climbing.
Best Time to Visit Pyramid of the Moon #
The best time to visit Teotihuacan's Pyramid of the Moon is during the dry, cooler months (October-April) when walking the site is most comfortable.
Weather & Climate near Pyramid of the Moon #
Pyramid of the Moon's climate is classified as Cold Semi-Arid - Cold Semi-Arid climate with mild summers (peaking in May) and cool winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 2°C to 27°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 23°C and lows of 2°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 3°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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March
March is cool with highs of 26°C and lows of 6°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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April
April is cool with highs of 27°C and lows of 8°C. Light rainfall.
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May
May is the warmest month with highs of 27°C and lows of 9°C. Moderate rainfall (46 mm).
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June
June is cool with highs of 25°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (88 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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July
July is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 10°C. The wettest month with 95 mm of rain and partly cloudy skies.
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August
August is cool with highs of 24°C and lows of 10°C. Regular rainfall (94 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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September
September is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (75 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (36 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 5°C. Almost no rain and mostly sunny skies.
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December
December is cool with highs of 23°C and lows of 3°C. The driest month with just 5 mm and mostly sunny skies.
