Archaeologists have made a fascinating discovery at the Pyramid of the Sun in Mexico, uncovering a 2,000-year-old mask that has left everyone in awe. The mask, made of green serpentine, was found in a ritual context, along with other artifacts, and is believed to be a portrait of a mysterious individual.
The discovery was made by researchers from Mexico’s National Institute of Anthropology and History in 2011, using a tunnel built in the 1930s to reach the mother-rock level. Among the findings were shards of clay pottery, animal bones, and three serpentine human figurines. However, the mask stood out for its striking resemblance to Jim Carrey’s character in the iconic 90s movie The Mask.
Social media users have been quick to point out the similarity, with some even joking about the dangers of putting on the mask. However, beyond the humor, this discovery holds significant importance for archaeologists, providing a glimpse into the ancient city of Teotihuacan.
The mask is believed to have been left as part of an inauguration ritual for the temple’s construction, and its lifelike appearance has sparked speculation about who it might portray. The temple, built around 100 CE, was once a bustling city populated by 200,000 people, yet relatively little is known about them today.
The room beneath the temple holds promise for future archaeologists, connected to a 49-foot wide room that may uncover the secrets of this ancient civilization. As Verónica Ortega, director of the Integral Conservation Project for the Plaza of the Moon, noted, “These large offering complexes constitute the sacred heart of the city of Teotihuacán… What can be found inside them will help unravel the relationship this ancient metropolis had with other regions of Mesoamerica.”
This discovery is a testament to the fascinating world of archaeology, where every find has the potential to unravel the mysteries of the past. As we continue to explore and learn more about ancient civilizations, we are reminded that there is still so much to discover and uncover.
