Roadworks in Mexico have revealed a large pyramid-shaped structure dating back to pre-Hispanic times, the country’s National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) has announced.

The structure, described as a pyramid base, was identified in the Sierra Alta region of the central state of Hidalgo, which is north of Mexico City. In archaeology, the term “pyramid base” refers to the foundations or lower part of a pyramid structure.

Pyramids in Mesoamerica, such as those built by the Mayan, Aztec, and Teotihuacán civilizations, were monumental structures often used for religious and ceremonial purposes. Characterized by their stepped design and central staircases, these pyramids often served as temples and were often the centerpiece of ancient cities.

Mesoamerica is a historical and cultural region in North America that stretches from central Mexico through Belize, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, and northern Costa Rica. It is known to be the cradle of several advanced pre-Hispanic (or pre-Columbian) civilizations.

The first discovery of the pyramid base in Hidalgo was in June during the construction of a new lane on Mexico’s Federal Highway 105.

The structure appears to be part of a pre-Hispanic settlement named San Miguel, which was cataloged and reported to the Public Registry of Archaeological and Historical Monuments and INAH Zones.

The monument site consists of five sectors and at least 10 archaeological mounds, according to the INAH. It predates European colonization in the region, which began in the early 16th century.

After the discovery of the structure, INAH carried out an archaeological rescue project, exhaustively documenting the site with the support of drones. These were used to take pictures for the creation of digital photogrammetric models.

During the investigation, the researchers also collected numerous samples of coal, soil, and charred wood, among other materials that will be studied in the laboratory to obtain archaeological data.

After the end of the research project, the structure was buried again for conservation purposes. It was previously protected by geotextile. Geotextiles are a type of material sometimes used in archaeological conservation to protect and stabilize archaeological structures and sites.

The recent findings will contribute to the understanding of human occupation in the Sierra Alta area of ​​Hidalgo, specifically in the Barranca de Metztitlán area, where the first settlement is believed to date back at least 14,000 years.