New Perspectives on Migration into the Tlajinga District of Teotihuacan: A Dual-Isotope Approach

The city of Teotihuacan (AD 1–550) was a major multiethnic urban center that attracted migrants from as far away west Mexico and the Maya region. Past research in Tlajinga district at using oxygen isotopes human remains estimated nearly 30% population 33, single apartment compound, were migrants. This study takes dual-isotope approach ( 87 Sr/ 86 Sr ? 18 O p ) to reevaluate proportion in-migration includes data two additional compounds, 17 n = 23). New results indicate comprised ~45% population. Previously acquired radiocarbon dates combined with mortuary isotope suggest immigration highest during first centuries compound occupation. Nevertheless, migration continual process throughout its history. Additionally, new finding suggests residents 33 ingested foods higher ratios than did those 18. We hypothesize incorporation imported lime for nixtamalization skewed remains, potentially important future studies Teotihuacan.