Cantona, Forgotten Fortress City: Mexico Unexplained, Episode 265

Summary

In this episode of 'Mexico Unexplained,' host Robert Bitto explores the ancient city of Cantona, a significant archaeological site in Mexico. First documented in 1855 by Swiss entomologist 24-year-old Arri theur, Cantona features impressive urban planning and monumental architecture, indicating its prominence in Mesoamerican history. The site experienced four distinct phases, thriving from 600 BC to 600 AD before its decline due to invasions and environmental challenges, leading to abandonment by 1050 AD. Despite its rich history and potential for tourism, Cantona remains largely unknown, inviting further research and exploration.

Takeaways

• 🏛️ A Swiss entomologist, Arri theur, discovered the ancient city of Cantona in 1855 during an expedition in Mexico.
• 🌞 The name 'Cantona' means 'House of the Sun,' derived from local terms in the Aztec language.
• 🗿 Cantona features formidable walled fortifications, well-planned streets, and monumental architecture typical of Mesoamerican cities.
• 📜 The history of Cantona is divided into four main phases, spanning about 2,000 years of habitation.
• 📈 During the Cantona I phase (600 BC - 50 AD), the city experienced significant population growth and became a major trade center.
• ⚔️ The Cantona II phase (50 AD - 600 AD) saw the construction of numerous ball courts and intensified trade, but also increased military fortifications.
• 🔪 The Cantona III phase (600 AD - 950 AD) marked a shift to a militaristic government and increased human sacrifices due to external pressures.
• 🌵 By the Cantona IV phase (950 AD - 1050 AD), the city faced abandonment due to droughts and invasions, leading to a significant population decline.
• 🕵️‍♂️ Only 1-10% of Cantona has been excavated, revealing a complex urban layout with narrow walkways and multiple public plazas.
• 🌌 The nearby Sakamok cave may have served as an astronomical observatory, tied to the Mesoamerican calendar, although its origins remain a mystery.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the episode of 'Mexico Unexplained'?

The episode focuses on the ancient city of Cantona in Mexico, exploring its history, archaeological significance, and the findings of various researchers over the years.

Who was the first person to document Cantona and when did this occur?

The Swiss entomologist and minerologist, 24-year-old A. R. J. Suur, was the first to document Cantona in 1855 during his expedition to collect insects.

What does the name 'Cantona' mean?

The name 'Cantona' is derived from the Aztec words 'Kali' (house) and 'tonali' (sun), meaning 'House of the Sun'.

How did Cantona's population and urban structure change from 1,000 BC to 600 AD?

Initially, Cantona had small villages and no stone buildings. By 750 AD, it developed dense urban settlements and extensive road networks, and by 600 AD, it became one of the largest cities in ancient Mexico, rivaling Teotihuacan.

What significant resources did the inhabitants of Cantona exploit?

The inhabitants exploited nearby obsidian resources, which contributed to their wealth and the city's significance in regional trade.

What were some of the architectural features found in Cantona?

Cantona featured formidable fortifications, an intricate network of narrow walkways, and numerous public buildings, including plazas and ball courts.

What triggered the militarization and eventual decline of Cantona?

The militarization was a reaction to external pressures from invading tribes and internal pressures from a growing population, leading to increased human sacrifices and a decline in artistic production.

What archaeological work has been done at Cantona since its rediscovery?

Significant archaeological work began in the early 1960s, with large-scale excavations starting in 1992 under the direction of Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History.

What remains of Cantona today, and how much has been excavated?

Today, only about 1 to 10% of the site has been excavated, revealing monumental architecture and significant structures, yet much of its history remains unexplored.

What is the significance of the nearby Saka Moak Cave?

The Saka Moak Cave contains a unique artificial rock structure believed to have been used as an astronomical observatory, although its origins and purpose remain a mystery.