13 Cities Where History's Darkest Secrets Are Hidden in Plain Sight

4. The Silent City of Teotihuacan: An Ancient Metropolis

Teotihuacan, located in the highlands of central Mexico, was once one of the largest cities in the ancient world, with a population exceeding 100,000 at its peak. Despite its size and influence, much about Teotihuacan remains a mystery, including the identity of its builders and the reasons for its decline. The city's layout is meticulously planned, with the grand Avenue of the Dead leading to the towering Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. The absence of written records has left historians to piece together the city's history through its architecture and artifacts. The discovery of tunnels and chambers beneath the pyramids has led to speculation about their purpose, with some suggesting they were used for religious rituals or as burial sites for elite rulers. The enigmatic nature of Teotihuacan is further compounded by its multicultural population, as evidenced by the diverse artistic styles found throughout the city.