The Grand Design of Teo

The main grounds of Teo can be viewed as the body of Quetzalcoatl, the Feathered Serpent. Quetzalcoatl is the bringer of light and a profound vehicle for personal growth and transformation. He is often depicted as having two heads. A picture of Quetzalcoatl is at the bottom of this page.

Traditionally, one starts the journey of purification and redemption by entering the head of Quetzalcoatl near the pyramid of the same name in the Ciudadela. Leaving the Ciudadela, a right turn takes you onto the Avenue of the Dead, looking north toward the beautiful Pyramid of the Moon, over a mile away.

Traveling up the Avenue of the Dead, over the bridge of Rio San Juan, you encounter a number of plazas, each offering a different opportunity for leaving behind beliefs and stories which no longer serve you. After several days of meditation, ritual, and ceremony, you emerge from the other head of Quetzalcoatl into the plaza before the Pyramid of the Moon.

The final celebration and ascension typically happens at the Pyramid of the Sun, which dominates the Avenue of the Dead (and indeed, the entire area) part way back along the Avenue. Although the top of the pyramid was once graced by a temple structure, it is now bare. However, lovely butterflies are frequently seen, gently bobbing in the air above the pyramid.

The Place of the Women

The Place of the Women is a complex to the west of the Avenue of the Dead, just north of the San Juan River. Within its dark, warm, interior is a powerful feminine energy. Here is a place of release, a place of nurturing and peace. Here you may be cleansed and refreshed.

The Palaces of the Butterflies and Jaguars

The Palace of the Butterflies and the Palace of the Jaguars may be found in the area west of the Pyramid of the Moon. This is where the most transcended artists and teachers made their homes before
their final merging with the Sun. Here you will find many of the most powerful, sacred areas of the entire site, among them the Portal of the Masters and an opening into the heart of Teo.

Tetitla, Zacuala, La Ventilla, Atetelco, Tepantitla

Although once part of the city itself, these sites are now outside the boundaries of the main archeological site. Murals at these sites are the most beautiful and well-preserved of the entire area. These sites were also special quarters for Toltec masters and their families. Since these areas are “off the beaten track,” visiting them may require directions from a knowledgeable teacher. Don’t miss them!

Experiencing Teo In a Power Journey

Knowing the transformational power of Teo is best done with an experienced teacher – many of the deepest and most powerful
myths of Teo are transmitted though your teacher, not through writings. A teacher will guide you with loving support as you move through sacred areas here at Teo. You may participate in a variety of meditations, ritual, and ceremonies, depending on the teacher, the group, and even the time of year – truly, no two trips to Teo are the same!