Las Guachimontones is the largest discovered archaeological site constructed by the Teuchitlan civilization that occupied the Tequila Valley region between 300 BC and 500 AD. The Teuchitlan religious architecture is famous for its circular step pyramids culminating in an altar. A ring of patio space surrounds the pyramid, and then an outer circle of rectangular platforms, whose number varies between four to sixteen, encloses the patio.
The site was discovered in 1969 by the American archaeologist Dr. Phil Weigand and his wife, Celia Weigand, in the highlands of Jalisco. Further surveys recorded the existence of over 200 Guachimontones around Western Mexico. Although the relationship between the Teuchitlan and the larger Mesoamerican cultures is uncertain, there is evidence of some common gods and rituals.
On the other hand, the link between the Teuchitlan and the older Shaft-Tomb culture (500BC-400AD) is obvious. Shaft tombs exist directly under the platforms in the Guachimonton structures. However, it is still uncertain whether the pyramids were built on top of the pre-existing shaft tombs.
Teuchitlan people used the pyramids mostly for rituals honoring Ehecatl, the god of wind. Furthermore, excavations revealed that there was a hole at the center of the altar, probably used to hold a pole. Pole ceremonies were common among the Teuchitlan community members. This ritual would often involve a priest suspending himself from the pole and simulating the flight of a bird, thus displaying his devotion to their god.
