Have you ever wondered how Mexico’s indigenous peoples, particularly the ancient Mesoamerican cultures like the Maya and the Aztecs, played a ball game known as “Ōllamaliztli” (in Nahuatl), involving using their hips to strike a rubber ball? This game, which is also known by other names, such as pitz and ulama, is one of the oldest in the world, dating back over 3,000 years.
You can catch a demonstration of this fascinating ancient sport on the next two Sundays at the Centro Interpretativo Guachimontones “Phil Weigand” archaeological site, located in the municipality of Teuchitlán, about 60 kilometers west of Guadalajara.
Members of the group Juegos de Pelota Ancestral Nahual will be on hand to demonstrate the game. Their chief aim is to preserve this historic sport. Be sure to check out their Facebook page, which features videos and photos illustrating the skills required for this challenging game, as well as other fascinating indigenous rituals the group performs.
The demonstrations will take place on Sunday, August 3 and 10, at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Admission is free. Driving time from Ajijic is approximately one hour and 50 minutes.