Unravelling the mystery of ancient Mexican metropolis Teotihuacan

Visitors and vendors at the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan in Mexico. — Photos: Reuters

Among the many mysteries surrounding the ancient Mexican metropolis of Teotihuacan, one has been especially hard to crack: how did its residents use the many signs and symbols found on its murals and ritual sculptures?

The city’s towering pyramids reopened to visitors earlier this month as pandemic restrictions eased. But perhaps its most interesting and extensively-excavated neighbourhood, featuring a patio floor with rare painted symbols, or glyphs, remains off-limits to tourists.