Archaeologists Reconstruct Map of Teotitlán de Valle, Uncovering Hidden Zapotec Structures

A non-invasive geophysical survey mapped pre-Hispanic ruins and seismic risks under colonial structures — without disturbing a single stone

A joint team of scientists from INAH, UNAM, and the ARX PROJECT has completed the first comprehensive geophysical survey of the historic center of Teotitlán del Valle, Oaxaca — revealing a buried Zapotec ceremonial center that has lain hidden beneath the surface for centuries.

Three significant features were found:

Ceremonial patios: A group of ceremonial and palatial structures arranged around an open patio like the palaces of Mitla, centered around the present-day Church of Our Lady of Nativity.
Funerary chambers: At least one major geophysical anomaly compatible with the existence of at least one monumental Zapotec tomb underneath the patio.
Colonial engineering effort: In the 16th and 17th centuries, large volumes of fill from the demolition of the prehispanic structures were used to level the terrain to build the church and atrium.

These findings make one thing clear: the archaeological zone is more extensive than what is visible today.

In their report, “Exploring the Heart of Teotitlán Del Valle”, the researchers say, “These findings are not merely scientific data: they are an opportunity for the community, authorities, and specialists to work together to preserve a history that continues to live beneath our feet.”

The Belguie-Xiguie Project deployed three non-destructive technologies — electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), ground-penetrating radar (GPR), and ambient seismic noise tomography. These cutting-edge tools allowed researchers to image the subsoil to depths of more than 25 meters without excavation.

These technologies support detailed mapping of the archaeological zone while limiting the disturbance of current structures. Respect for the communities in the region is of the utmost importance to the archaeological team. The project was carried out in close collaboration with Teotitlán del Valle's Municipal Presidency, the Community Museum Committee, and the Catholic Temple Committee, and builds on the team's earlier two research seasons at Mitla, Oaxaca (Project Lyobaa 2022 and 2023 seasons).

On May 14th, ARX Project was back in Teotitlán del Valle to deliver the geophysical study report to the community museum and local authorities and plan the next stages of research. Roman Gutierrez Ruiz, president of the Teotitlan del Valle community museum, told members of the project team, “We are deeply grateful for this project and for the support it has received. For us Zapotec, this area that they are studying is very important. We are very interested in seeing more of our ancient roots.”