The gods are angry: people are scared by the destruction of an ancient pyramid (4 photos)
Locals are spreading rumors that the collapse of the historic structure is a sign of bad times to come. 
An ancient pyramid in Mexico has been reduced to rubble after a torrential downpour, prompting locals to fear divine retribution.
The Ihuatzio archaeological site in Michoacan state fell victim to the elements after its structure was weakened by intense heat, causing cracks to appear that allowed water to seep in.
Locals are spreading rumors that this is a sign of bad times to come. Many of them think that "the gods are angry." 
Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) confirmed the incident, saying that heavy rainfall, which exceeded average expectations, caused the central part of the southern façade to collapse.
"On the night of July 29, 2024, heavy rains in the Pátzcuaro Lake basin, with rainfall exceeding the expected average, caused the collapse of the central part of the southern façade of one of the pyramidal bases of the Ihuatio archaeological zone. The high temperatures previously recorded in the area and the subsequent drought caused cracks to appear that allowed water to penetrate into the interior of the building. Since the early morning of Tuesday, the 30th, INAH staff in Michoacán have been at the heritage site to assess the damage; their observations have confirmed damage to at least six stepped bodies of the so-called Southern Base, both in its outer slab wall and in its core and retaining wall," their official statement reads. 
At its height, Ihuatsió covered an area of about 150 hectares, containing at least 84 structures, seven of which are currently on display in the archaeological park.
The pyramid-like structures were considered sacred places and likely served as venues for religious rituals and ceremonies. They also played a political role, symbolizing the power and sovereignty of the culture. Some interpret the destruction as an ominous sign. 
