TLAXCALA.- A potentially devastating fire was successfully contained at the Xochitécatl archaeological zone in Tlaxcala on Sunday, thanks to the swift response of local authorities and community volunteers. The fire, which broke out around midday on January 26, 2025, threatened the eastern slope of the important pre-Hispanic site.

The INAH delegation in Tlaxcala worked in close collaboration with the state's Secretariats of Citizen Security and Government, as well as the Senior Government Official, to combat the blaze. Their efforts were bolstered by the invaluable assistance of the Tlaxcala Fire Department, the State Civil Protection Coordination, and their counterparts in the municipality of Nativitas. Perhaps most importantly, local community members also bravely volunteered their time and energy to help contain the fire.

The combined efforts of all involved proved successful, and the fire was brought under control. INAH personnel immediately conducted a thorough assessment of the site and confirmed that, thankfully, no damage was sustained by the precious cultural heritage of Xochitécatl. Security protocols at the archaeological zone were also activated, ensuring the safety of any visitors present.

José Vicente de la Rosa Herrera, director of the INAH Tlaxcala Center, visited the site after the fire was extinguished, along with Óscar Murias Juárez, the mayor of Nativitas. They surveyed the area and expressed their gratitude to all the agencies and individuals who contributed to the successful containment of the fire. In addition to fighting the flames, crews also took preventative measures in the surrounding grasslands to prevent any future flare-ups.

This incident underscores INAH's ongoing dedication to protecting the archaeological sites under its care. The quick thinking and collaborative spirit of the first responders and community volunteers ensured that the cultural legacy of Xochitécatl remains intact for future generations.