Question

Compare and contrast the architectural complexes of Teotihuacan and Chaco Canyon. Evaluate the arguments for understanding both of these early monuments of American art as ceremonial sites. Conduct research to learn of the rituals that would have been performed in each location. Locate and properly cite the sources used to support your statements.

Answer 1

The correct answers to this open question are the following.

The architectural complexes of Teotihuacan and Chaco Canyon are very interesting archeological sites that belonged to ancient civilizations in America. These early monuments of American art as ceremonial sites have been studied by archeologists and historians for different reasons.

The impressive archaeological site of Teotihuacán is located in the town of San Juan Teotihuacán, Hidalgo, one hour northeast Mexico City. It is a spectacular archeological site visited by millions of people year-round. There, you can find the monumental pyramid of the Sun, the pyramid of the Moon, the pyramid of Quetzalcoatl, and the inexplicable avenue of the death. Teotihuacan people used to have many rituals on those pyramids. The offerings, dances, and rituals dedicated to the Sun and Moon respectively were the most important due to the deities they worshiped.

The Chaco Canyon is part of the region known as The Pueblos, in New Mexico, close to Albuquerque. Archeologists affirm that people from Chaco Canyon knew how to observe the stars and predict eclipses. So they did chants, dances, and rituals to honor the Sun as the giver of birth and the Moon as the great nightly spirit.