Large civilizations thrived in and around the Valley of Mexico long before the arrival of the Aztecs, a nomadic tribe that settled in the region in the 14th century. Cuicuilco, in present-day southern Mexico City, was founded in 1400 BC and it blossomed into an important farming community of some 20,000 inhabitants up until a volcanic eruption in the 2nd or 3rd century covered the city in lava and destroyed everything in its path.

Meanwhile, about 70km (44 miles) northeast of Cuicuilco, a much larger civilization was flourishing in Teotihuacán (aka The City of the Gods), which was home to an estimated 200,000 people when it reached its peak around 450 AD. Known for its colossal pyramids of the sun and moon, Teotihuacán is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring Mexico’s rich history. Before visiting the site you can get a wealth of background info at the Museo Nacional de Antropología.