Teotihuacan, one of Mexico’s most visited archaeological complexes, reopened its grounds under a heavy security presence and with noticeably fewer visitors two days after a shooting at the Pyramid of the Moon in which a Canadian woman was killed and 13 other people were wounded.
The shooting occurred on Monday morning, when witnesses said a 27-year-old Mexican man opened fire from the mezzanine of the Pyramid of the Moon. Witnesses reported the shooter fired mostly into the air while carrying a digital tablet and shouting, and then took his own life. Access to the Pyramid of the Moon itself remained blocked even as the wider Teotihuacan site reopened to the public.
The reopening on Wednesday took place amid increased scrutiny of security at cultural sites in Mexico, a concern heightened as the country prepares to co-host the World Cup. The sprawling complex of pyramids and temples drew about 1.8 million visitors last year, making it a key tourist destination.
Authorities dispatched 40 members of the National Guard to reinforce security at Teotihuacan, joining municipal and Mexico City police. The National Guard personnel wore helmets, camouflage clothing and bulletproof vests, patrolled the grounds in armed pickup trucks and kept their faces partially covered, according to observers at the site.
To speed and strengthen checks, basic bag and backpack inspections were put in place at the five entry points to the site. The National Institute of Anthropology and History, INAH, reported that the new measures slowed entry, with some visitors waiting more than three and a half hours in the sun. INAH said those affected were offered free admission in compensation for the delay.
"As instructed by the president, we will also be able to count on metal detectors," INAH Director Omar Vazquez said, adding that there would be more police at each entrance.
Some visitors expressed relief at the visible security presence. "The incident has already happened, and we feel there will be enough security here," said Imran Khan, an American tourist. French visitor Lou Kermarrec said she had not been sure the site would open. "I’m not feeling insecure because I was pretty sure there would be a lot of police around," she said. "But I think it’s really terrible what happened because it’s such a popular site."
Local vendors also welcomed the return of tourists. Surrounded by handicraft souvenirs, cups and caps bearing motifs from the site, vendor Silvia Castaneda said, "Teotihuacan awaits them with open arms."
Teotihuacan sits about 50 kilometers (31 miles) from Mexico City and is a central draw for both domestic and international visitors. The decision to reopen with tightened security measures reflects authorities' effort to balance public safety concerns with the site's economic and cultural importance.