What significant archaeological discovery was made in Mexico?

A 1,400-year-old tomb from the Zapotec culture was discovered in San Pablo Huitzo, Oaxaca, Mexico.

What are the notable features of the Zapotec tomb?

The tomb includes a sculpture of an owl with a man in its beak, multicolored murals depicting a funeral procession, and an elaborately carved doorway with calendrical names.

When does the discovered Zapotec tomb date back to?

The tomb dates to approximately A.D. 600, during the flourishing period of the Zapotec civilization in Oaxaca.

Home / Science / 1,400-Year-Old Zapotec Tomb Unearthed in Mexico

1,400-Year-Old Zapotec Tomb Unearthed in Mexico

27 Jan

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Summary

A 1,400-year-old Zapotec tomb was discovered in southern Mexico.
The tomb features a sculpture of an owl with a man in its beak.
Multicolored murals depict a funeral procession with incense.

1,400-Year-Old Zapotec Tomb Unearthed in Mexico

Archaeologists in Mexico have made a remarkable discovery: a 1,400-year-old tomb belonging to the ancient Zapotec civilization. Uncovered in San Pablo Huitzo, Oaxaca, the tomb dates to approximately A.D. 600, a period when the Zapotecs, also known as the "Cloud People," flourished in the region.

The tomb's entrance features a striking sculpture of an owl, a symbol of death and power in Zapotec culture, with the face of a Zapotec lord visible within its beak. This suggests the tomb honors an important ancestor.

Inside, the burial chamber walls are adorned with vividly preserved murals in white, green, red, and blue, depicting a funeral procession. Participants are shown carrying bags of "copal," a resin used as incense in pre-Hispanic Mesoamerican ceremonies. The tomb also contains an elaborately carved doorway with calendrical names and engraved figures.