Danish Researchers Decipher Ancient Writing of Teotihuacan

A team of Danish linguists has made a significant breakthrough in understanding the ancient city of Teotihuacan by deciphering its writing system. This discovery reveals that the symbols found on the walls of Mexico’s “City of the Gods” represent an early form of the Uto-Aztecan language, transforming our comprehension of the civilization that flourished over two millennia ago.

Magnus Pharao Hansen and Christopher Helmke, researchers from the University of Copenhagen, presented their findings in the esteemed journal Current Anthropology. The evidence suggests that the colorful murals and artifacts of Teotihuacan contain a sophisticated writing system that records a language linked to what would later evolve into Nahuatl, the language of the Aztecs, as well as the modern Cora and Huichol languages still in use today.

Deciphering the Symbols of Teotihuacan

The intricate symbols adorning the walls have puzzled archaeologists for decades. The recent research conducted by Hansen and Helmke indicates that these symbols are not merely decorative but serve a communicative purpose. Their analysis reveals a complex structure within the writing system, pointing towards a formalized method of recording information.

Hansen and Helmke’s work underscores the cultural and linguistic significance of Teotihuacan, suggesting that the city’s inhabitants engaged in advanced forms of communication. This new understanding may offer insights into the social organization and governance of this ancient metropolis, which was one of the largest cities in the world during its peak.

Implications for Ancient Civilizations

The findings challenge previous assumptions about the cultural and linguistic landscape of Mesoamerica. By establishing a connection between the Teotihuacan writing system and later Uto-Aztecan languages, the research sheds light on the evolution of language in the region and its influence on subsequent civilizations, including the Aztecs.

The deciphering of the Teotihuacan script is expected to encourage further research into other ancient writing systems in Mesoamerica. As archaeologists and linguists continue to explore the rich history of this area, there is potential for uncovering more about the lives and practices of its early inhabitants.

This breakthrough not only enhances our understanding of Teotihuacan but also contributes to the broader narrative of human communication and cultural development in ancient societies. As scholars build on this work, the story of the “City of the Gods” may reveal even more secrets that have long remained hidden.