Wal-Mart opens controversial Mexican store near historic Aztec pyramids

SAN JUAN TEOTIHUACAN, Mexico (AFP) - As hundreds of curious onlookers watched, Wal-Mart opened its controversial store near the famous Aztec pyramids of Teotihuacan northeast of Mexico City.
The first shoppers entered the store after months of controversy and protests against the US retail giant, which many felt was desecrating the key historic site.
The National Institute of Archaeology and History however cleared the store to open after determining the site did not contain important ruins.
The store, called Bodega Aurrera, cost seven million dollars and employs 185 people. Local officials estimated it would benefit some 350,000 people.
The ancient city of Teotihuacan, located 50 kilometers (30 miles) north of Mexico City, ranks among the country's most popular tourist destinations with three massive pyramids built hundreds of years ago.

11/05/2004 - 00:54 GMT - AFP