Yes, there was once a sea in Puebla. Dinosaur footprints, visible in the Tehuacán-Cuicatlán Biosphere Reserve and in areas like Atexcal and San Juan Raya, not only confirm the presence of herbivorous, carnivorous, and flying species more than 120 million years ago, but also reveal that much of the territory was covered by a warm sea in prehistoric times.
Today, these prehistoric remains can be visited through ecotourism tours that allow visitors to walk through Mexico’s geological past.
Where are the dinosaur footprints in Puebla?
The tracks are located in three key areas in the southern part of the state:
- Santa Ana Xaloxtoc, Tehuacán
- Santa Catarina Tehuixtla, Atexcal
- San Lucas Teteletitlán, Atexcal
At each site, between 5 and 20 footprints have been found, distributed over areas of 200 to 300 square meters, exposed in ravines, eroded slopes, and ancient riverbeds. Their discovery was confirmed by specialists from the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) following reports from locals.
What dinosaurs left these footprints?
According to paleontological analysis, the tracks correspond to:
Iguanodontidae, walking herbivores
Long-necked sauropods
Allosaurid-type theropods, large predators
Possible pterosaurs, flying dinosaurs still under study
The variety of footprints suggests that the region was a corridor of life during the Early Cretaceous.
Can you touch the footprints?
In some areas, yes, but it’s recommended not to to avoid wear and tear.
Was there really a sea in Puebla?
Yes. The marine remains of Atexcal and San Juan Raya are direct evidence.
Is it safe to get there by car?
Yes, although the last stretch to Atexcal and San Juan Raya is rural.
Can I visit any day?
Yes, but guided tours offer a better experience and historical context.
Source: El Universal
