Archaeology of Teotihuacan, Mexico
Facades
on both the Feathered Serpent Pyramid and the Adosada platform (a later
addition that covered the west facade of the pyramid), were constructed
in a form known as 'talud-tablero', one of the most characteristic features
of Teotihuacan architectural style. Talud-tablero facades depict a rectangular
element (tablero) set upon a trapezoid (talud), a combination that may
be repeated in multiple stages.
The
staircase with large stone blocks was constructed over the principal facade
(west side) of the pyramid. The balustrades limiting the staircase at both
sides were adorned with curved representations of the Feathered Serpent
heads. They are very similar to, thouth not exactly same as, the heads
curvings incorporated into the facades.The Pre-Feathered Serpent Pyramid page describes small portions of structures exposed in and around the pyramid. While stratigraphic evidence indicates that they predate the Feathered Serpent Pyramid, no ceramic materials associated with these structures were recovered and detailed chronologic data is lacking. The facade page deals with exterior features of the pyramid. Representations incorporated into the stone carvings depicted on the facades of the Feathered Serpent Pyramid are discussed in the Iconography pages. In the Feathered Serpent Pyramid (interior) page, the materials and structures used in constructing the inner core of the monument are described, while the Adosada Platform page focuses on architectural features that differ from those exhibited by the Feathered Serpent Pyramid .
