Graves 2 and 4 at the Feathered Serpent Pyramid

Grave 2 was discovered during the excavation of the South Tunnel, 10 m north of the south facade at the level of the subsoil. The grave consisted of a long shallow pit dug into the tepetate, delimited by four roughly-made, vertical stone walls which, at the same time, formed part of the internal construction-cell structure of the pyramid. These walls were placed right on the edge of the pit to form a cist-like structure, unroofed, and lacking any kind of entrance. After the mortuary activities were complete, the cist was completely filled with the same kind of rocks and mud used to form the fill of the pyramid. (Skeletons were therefore found in poor condition of preservation, as shown in this photo). The remains of eight females were found in Grave 2, arranged in a row, and evenly spaced relative to one another. Some of the individuals were found with arms and hands positioned as though they had been tied behind their backs. Only several projectile points, a few shell beads and a pair of shell earspools were found in association to each individuals.

Grave 4 was found 13.5 m north of the south facade in our South Tunnel. The grave pit and walls of the chamber were very similar to those of Grave 2, except for the fact that the former was much longer than the latter. The remains of eighteen people were found in the pit, and several individuals were discovered with their arms and hands positioned as if they had been tied behind their backs. Eighteen male individuals, arranged in a row, were accompanied by a large number of ornaments and offerings, including obsidian projectile points, slate disks, and shell pendants with imitation maxillae.