The Ancient Cities of the New World

"The Ancient Cities of the New World" by Désiré Charnay is a detailed account of the author's explorations and studies of ancient civilizations in Mexico and Central America. Charnay, who had previously visited Mexico in 1857, returned in 1880 with better preparation and resources, thanks to the support of both the French government and the American philanthropist Mr. Lorillard. This opportunity allowed Charnay to conduct extensive research and document his findings, which he generously shared with France. The narrative begins with Charnay's arrival in Vera Cruz, a city marked by its Eastern architectural influences and notorious for its unhealthy climate due to yellow fever. The journey from Vera Cruz to Mexico City is described in vivid detail, highlighting the shift from the warm coastal region to the temperate and then cold zones as the railway ascends through the Sierra. Charnay reflects on the changes brought by the railway, which replaced the picturesque muleteer caravans and transformed the landscape and local economy. The text also delves into the historical and cultural significance of cities like Puebla and Cholula, known for their religious architecture and historical importance. Charnay's work is not just a travelogue but a scholarly attempt to reconstruct the history of the Toltecs and other ancient civilizations, using both archaeological evidence and historical texts. His observations and theories challenge previous misconceptions and offer a new perspective on the origins and development of these civilizations.