Rise and fall of the city of the gods: a cult of Venus-inspired warfare and blood sacrifice both sustained and ultimately destroyed the great Mesoamerican metropolis of Teotihuacan
Article Abstract:
Warfare and sacrifice linked to the cycles of Venus were apparently crucial in the history of the ruined city of Teotihuacan in Mexico, which flourished between 200-600 AD. Evidence of human sacrifice has been found at the Feathered Serpent Pyramid, where the number of individuals sacrificed and their placement apparently have religious significance related to the Venus cult. The Feathered Serpent itself probably represented Venus. In addition, Venus glyphs have been found on murals at Cacaxtla. Teotihuacan-style temples are associated with symbols of conquest on the Cacaxtla murals, suggesting that this was the source of Teotihuacan's downfall.
Publication Name: Archaeology
Subject: Anthropology/archeology/folklore
ISSN: 0003-8113
Year: 1993
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Gallic blood rites
Article Abstract:
Some implications of Gallic ritual sites dating from the 4th and 3d centuries BC discovered in northern France are discussed. Rituals performed seem to have included display of remains of enemies killed in battle and sacrificed to the Gods of the underworld. The excavations show that the Gallic religion bore similarities to the Greek chthonic underworld cults.
Publication Name: Archaeology
Subject: Anthropology/archeology/folklore
ISSN: 0003-8113
Year: 2001
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Scotland's Irish origins
Article Abstract:
The origin of the Scots in the Gaelic speakers who crossed the Irish Sea 1,700 years ago is discussed. Until about 400 AD, the only people already living in Scotland were the Picts. Christianity moved across the same sea, and a symbiotic relationship between clerical and secular leaders developed.
Publication Name: Archaeology
Subject: Anthropology/archeology/folklore
ISSN: 0003-8113
Year: 2001
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