Climate change partially collapses the ancient Michoacán pyramid

A 15-metre pyramid located in the state of Michoacán, Mexico, partially collapsed due to the intense rainfall on the night of 29 July. According to Science Alert, the ancient stone pyramid was one of the best-preserved monuments of the Michoacán kingdom civilization, and extreme weather events, intensified by climate change, are blamed for its damage.

INAH (National Institute of Anthropology and History in Mexico) points to the extreme weather events observed in Mexico in recent weeks as the cause of the destruction of the valuable monument. However, Science Alert notes that Ihuatzio is not the only one experiencing the effects of climate change. Recent studies conducted in Europe and Mexico regarding the materials used in historic buildings show that increased rainfall can threaten such objects.

Tariakuiri Alvarez, a contemporary member of the P’urhépecha tribe, cited by Science Alert, considers the collapse of the pyramid a "bad omen," recalling similar events before the arrival of the conquistadors, which were interpreted as the gods' displeasure. The P’urhépecha tribe, also known as the Tarascans, is an ethnic group residing in the Mexican state of Michoacán. In the pre-Columbian period, the tribe had its own state and was one of the significant civilizations of Mesoamerica.

Extreme weather conditions and rising sea levels, driven by human activity, seriously threaten essential sites of ancient cultures. Recently, archaeologists discovered ancient cave paintings in Oceania are deteriorating due to accelerating climate change. The collapse of the iconic "Double Arch" rock formation in Utah is also attributed to changing water levels and erosion.

Watching priceless cultural heritage sites destroyed due to a human-altered climate is painful not only for scientists but for all of humanity. The Mexican pyramid case serves as another reminder of the need to act to protect our shared heritage in the face of global climate change.