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When we picture the Aztecs, we generally imagine them in the splendor of their ceremonial robes so often depicted in Aztec art. But what else did they wear? Research shows that most of the Aztec’s clothing was made from imported cotton or ayate « Continue »
Detail of first page from the Boturini Codex, depicting the departure from Aztlán. According to the Aztecs, their ancestors came from a place called Aztlán, which means “the place of cranes” or “the place of herons.” Legend describes it as a « Continue »
The Aztec Empire left an impressive legacy and evidence of their culture is still present in the modern world. Most people know that it was the Aztecs that introduced the world to chocolate – but did you know that there are several words in the « Continue »
Montezuma II Montezuma II, also known as Moctezuma II, was the reigning Aztec emperor when the Spanish conquistador Hernando Cortes arrived in modern-day Mexico. Montezuma II ruled from 1502 to 1520, during what many consider to have been the « Continue »
The Yucatán peninsula as seen from space Deep in the jungles of Mexico, archaeologists have re-discovered two ancient Mayan cities. The cities contain ruined pyramid temples, a gateway, a ball court, palace remains, altars, and stone monuments. « Continue »
When the Spanish arrived in modern-day Mexico, they were amazed by the advanced culture of the Aztecs. Although the Aztecs are remembered for their brutal human sacrifices and warrior-centric society, they were still one of the most accomplished « Continue »
Aztec mask of Xiuhtecuhtli, c. 1500, of Mixtec-Aztec provenance (Photo credit: Wikipedia) The art of the Aztecs was made with a combination of techniques and themes that were influenced by hundreds, if not thousands, of years of culture. Few of « Continue »
English: A Chipilín tamale in Oaxaca, Mexico. Español: Tamal de Chipilín en Oaxaca, Mexico. (Photo credit: Wikipedia) When most people think of “Mexican food,” what they are really thinking of is “Tex-mex.” While we love the Americanized « Continue »
Templo Mayor of Tenochtitlan. Mexico City (Photo credit: Wikipedia) When Mexican archaeologists found the body of a young Aztec woman in Mexico City’s Templo Mayor, they were blown away by the uniqueness of the burial. Surrounding the woman’s « Continue »
This stone carving from the South Ballcourt at the archaeological site of El Tajin, Veracruz, Mexico. (Photo credit: Wikipedia) The Aztec ball game, known as ullamaliztli, was a top priority to ancient Mesoamericans. Experts believe that the game « Continue »