The Aztec Empire, centered on the magnificent island city of Tenochtitlan, flourished from the 14th to the 16th centuries, becoming a powerful force in Mesoamerica. Their society was highly structured, deeply religious, and marked by incredible agricultural innovation like the chinampas. Their downfall came with the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in 1519.
Larger than many European cities of its time!
Imagine a city with canals instead of streets! Tenochtitlan was a marvel of urban planning built on a lake. Its size rivaled major European cities, showcasing the incredible engineering skills of the Aztec people.
How Aztecs grew food on water for a huge city.
These 'floating gardens' were a genius farming technique! By building up rich soil beds on the lake, the Aztecs ensured a constant supply of food, proving they were brilliant agricultural scientists.
A structured society with clear social classes.
Everyone in the Aztec Empire had a place! This social pyramid shows how important the Emperor and Nobles were, while recognizing the hard work of the Commoners who made up most of the population.
Polytheistic faith ruled daily life and nature.
The Aztecs worshipped many gods who controlled everything from the rain for their crops to the sun in the sky! These deities were central to their rituals, festivals, and understanding of the universe.
Books made of bark paper and deerskin.
Instead of A, B, C's, the Aztecs used amazing pictures to write! These decorated 'books' called codices are what we study to learn about their complex history and beliefs.
Education was mandatory for all Aztec children by age 15!
Whether they were future warriors or skilled weavers, all Aztec kids went to school! This shows how much the Aztecs valued preparing every child for their important place in society.
A 24-ton rock telling cosmic stories.
This colossal stone is one of the greatest pieces of Aztec art! It shows their deep knowledge of time, astronomy, and the epic stories of how their world began and how they believed it would end.
From founding their city to facing the Spanish.
In less than 200 years, the Aztecs grew from a small group on an island to control a massive empire! This timeline shows the key moments leading up to the Spanish arrival.
Corn, beans, squash, and surprising snacks!
The Aztec diet was surprisingly varied and very healthy! While everyone ate corn and beans, the unique foods from their lake environment - like algae cakes and insects - were true surprises.
Emperor during the empire's peak and downfall.
Moctezuma II was a powerful and disciplined leader who oversaw the Aztec Empire at its largest! His story highlights the moment two worlds collided with the arrival of the Europeans.
The island capital was a massive metropolis!
It's hard to imagine just how big Tenochtitlan was! It was far more populated than many well-known European cities of the early 1500s, showing the scale of Aztec civilization.
So we can tailor your experience
We'll use this to shape your experience.