Mexico: In a span of just nine days, two ancient structures in Mexico have unexpectedly collapsed, leading to heightened concerns among local tribes who view these events as ominous signs. The structures, including a pyramid at the Ihuatzio Archaeological Zone, have significant cultural and historical importance, particularly to the Purepecha people.
 Details of the Collapses
The first incident involved the collapse of the Double Arch in Utah’s Glen Canyon National Recreation Area. Soon after, a pyramid at the Ihuatzio Archaeological Zone, a site deeply rooted in the history of the Purepecha tribe, crumbled. The damage was extensive, affecting both the interior and exterior walls of the pyramid. The Ihuatzio structure, believed to have been built by the ancestors of the Purepecha people, was a key site for the tribe, especially during their peak from the 13th to the 16th centuries.
 Expert Explanations
Experts have pointed to natural causes as the likely reasons behind these collapses. According to the Mexican National Institute for Anthropology and History (INAH), heavy rainfall in the Lake Pátzcuaro basin led to water infiltration through existing cracks in the pyramid, which had been exacerbated by a period of drought and high temperatures. The resulting water damage caused a collapse in the central part of the southern façade of the structure.
INAH has since deployed personnel to assess the damage. Their investigations have confirmed that at least six of the stepped bodies of the so-called South Base were affected, including the exterior wall of slabs, the core, and the retaining wall. The institute is now focused on both recovering the affected parts and thoroughly repairing the structure to ensure its long-term preservation.
Cultural Significance and Local Concerns
For the Purepecha people, the collapse of the pyramid carries deep spiritual and cultural significance. Tariakuiri Alvarez, a member of the tribe, expressed concerns that the event might be a bad omen, potentially signaling an impending disaster. He drew parallels to a similar occurrence before the arrival of European conquistadors, which was interpreted at the time as a sign of displeasure from the gods Nana Kuerhaepiri and K’eri Kurikweri.
Despite the scientific explanations provided by experts, the collapse has rekindled ancient beliefs among the Purepecha, reflecting the enduring connection between the tribe and their ancestral heritage.
Preservation Efforts
The Ihuatzio Archaeological Zone, established around 900 AD, remains one of the key archaeological sites in Mexico, symbolizing the resilience and cultural legacy of the Purepecha tribe. The ongoing preservation efforts by INAH aim not only to restore the damaged pyramid but also to address conservation challenges posed by past restoration techniques. These efforts are crucial to safeguarding the site for future generations and maintaining the cultural heritage of the Purepecha people.
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