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by Dorothy and Bill Bell On the South West corner of the Plaza of the Moon is the elegant Palace of Quetzalpapalotl or Quetzal-Mariposa (Quetzal-Butterfly) believed to have been built around 250 AD. It is beautiful stepped structure complex with paintings, cut stone relief carvings and attractively painted roof ornaments with geometric designs. The Palace of Quetzalpapalotl is located at Gate 3 and sits on the South East corner of the Plaza of the Moon
The Stepped Structure is recognizable by its columns supporting a flat roof
The Inner courtyard with the stone relief columns of birds. Note the upper roof ornaments with geometric designs
When the Palace was originally uncovered, it was thought that this was the residence of a high ranking priest or other dignitary. There are rooms, patios and uncovered spaces that lend themselves to this conclusion. The stone pillars on the inner courtyard have images of birds - thought to be Quetzalpapalotl. This is mythical creature - a combination of bird and butterfly, was revered by Mesoamerican cultures.
Owl or Quetzalpapalotl
Archeology is both science and art. Another theory regarding the bird and the complex has arisen. Some archeologist believe that these were a public building and that the elite did not reside here as earlier thought. The birds thought to be Quetzalpapalotl, are now interpreted to be “Spearthrower Owl” an important military god at Teotihuacan.
Associated connected structures known as "Substructure of the Feathered Conch Shells" and the adjacent, "Patio of the Jaguars" are both in this complex group.
The Patio of the Jaguars has a mural containing images of the large cats in profile with feathered headdresses holding in their paws a snail and the feathers of the Quetzal bird. From the mouth of the trumpet are the glyphs for speech representing the sound of the trumpet. The murals demonstrate the reach of the empire and culture as both the Quetzal and sea shells are not native to this area. The figure above in the five stars is Tlaloc the god of rain and corn; one of the most powerful gods at the time.
The subterranean Temple of the Feathered Conch Shells also has murals of shells, birds and water painted green, red, blue and yellow.
The Bird, looking like a parrot, is spilling water on the yellow flower.
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The Palace
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On the Road In - Mexico
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