Tula - Atlantes

 
Columns which have been found on the site, as well as the colossal statues known as the Atlantes (the left one and also the upper part of the right one are reproductions: originals in the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City) have been assembled on the platform of the temple pyramid. The superb 4.60 m (15 ft) high statues, which once supported the roof of the temple, symbolise the god Quetzalcóatl in his guise of the morning star. In their right hand the statues each hold a sling for hurling spears (atlatl), while in their left hand they hold a bundle of arrows, a pouch of incense and a small sword. On their breast they carry a shield in the shape of a butterfly. The rear belt-buckle is in the form of a setting sun. The square columns display reliefs with the symbol of the earth (a crocodile's head) and pictures of warriors and weapons; the column which is incomplete has the face of Quetzalcóatl depicted on it.

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