Explore Quiahuiztlan: A coastal archaeological site in Veracruz

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Veracruz is home to some incredible destinations, and one of the most fascinating is Quiahuiztlan, a Totonac archaeological site facing the stunning Veracruz coast. It’s one of the region’s most interesting spots for anyone passionate about pre-Hispanic history. Plan your visit and travel back several centuries in time.

The history behind Quiahuiztlan

The name Quiahuiztlan comes from Nahuatl, combining “Quiahui,” meaning rain, and “tlan,” meaning place—so it translates to “The Place of Rain.”

The Totonac city was founded between 800 and 900 AD by communities seeking protection from invasions, which is why the site was built on a high, hard-to-reach location called Cerro de los Metates.

Quiahuiztlan experienced two invasions during the Postclassic period: first by the Toltecs and later by the Mexicas. The site is also near where Hernan Cortes founded Villa Rica de la Veracruz, allying with the Totonac people and the Spanish to conquer the Tenochca Empire.

The site served three purposes: a city for 15,000 inhabitants, a cemetery, and a fortress—making it a key part of Mexican history and one of Veracruz’s most important archaeological sites.

Two pyramid structures remain in the central plaza, one of which was used for sacrifices. Visitors can also see a shrine on the edge of a terrace, a plaza with two buildings believed to be dedicated to the gods Tlaloc and Huitzilopochtli, and a ball court.

One of the site’s most intriguing features is its three necropolises, where 78 tombs containing human remains and offerings have been found, some with views of the sea in the background.

Plan your visit to Quiahuiztlan, Veracruz’s coastal archaeological site

Quiahuiztlan is under the care of INAH and is open to the public. Don’t miss the chance to explore this fascinating site and connect with Mexico’s ancient roots.

The visit will immerse you in the Totonac city, and its architectural wonders will fill you with the history of the people who left their legacy here.

Quiahuiztlan is located on Cerro de los Metates, overlooking Villa Rica Beach in the municipality of Actopan, Veracruz, where visitors also have access to the beach. The site is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM.

Where to stay during your visit to Quiahuiztlan

For a comfortable stay nearby, Camino Real Veracruz is the perfect choice. Its beautiful facilities will charm you at first sight, and the luxurious rooms ensure an unforgettable visit.

Camino Real Veracruz features a boomerang-shaped architectural design, outdoor areas perfect for any season, and rooms with stunning ocean views, marble floors, air conditioning, minibars, TVs, and toiletries.

Quiahuiztlan is less than an hour and a half from Camino Real Veracruz. Take the Carretera Costera Cardel-Nautla (Federal 180) and follow the Farallón-Tinajitas turnoff to the town of Los Metates, where the archaeological site is located.