The largest pyramid in the world by volume is The Great Pyramid of Cholula, also known as Tlachihualtepetl.
This massive structure is located in Cholula, Puebla, Mexico, and dwarfs even the Great Pyramid of Giza in terms of its overall volume. While the Pyramid of Giza is significantly taller, Cholula covers a much larger area.
Key Features of the Great Pyramid of Cholula:
- Location: Cholula, Puebla, Mexico
- Name: Tlachihualtepetl (Nahuatl for "constructed mountain")
- Volume: Estimated at 4.45 million cubic meters, significantly larger than the Great Pyramid of Giza (approximately 2.5 million cubic meters).
- Historical Significance: It is a complex archaeological site with evidence of construction and use spanning centuries. The pyramid was dedicated to the deity Quetzalcoatl.
- Appearance: Today, the pyramid appears as a natural hill due to centuries of overgrowth. A church, Iglesia de Nuestra Señora de los Remedios, sits atop the pyramid.
Comparison with the Great Pyramid of Giza:
| Feature | Great Pyramid of Cholula | Great Pyramid of Giza |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Cholula, Mexico | Giza, Egypt |
| Volume | ~4.45 million m³ | ~2.5 million m³ |
| Height | ~55 meters | ~147 meters |
| Base Area | ~400 x 400 meters | ~230 x 230 meters |
| Current Appearance | Hill with a church | Distinct Pyramid |
Although hidden beneath vegetation, the Great Pyramid of Cholula represents a remarkable feat of ancient engineering and a testament to the rich history of Mesoamerica.
