You are probably visiting different archaeological sites, museums and exhibitions dedicated to this civilization, but do you really know what their life, customs and history were like?

The must-do tour, Chichen Itza, perfect for you to begin the process of immersing yourself in the ancient Mexican culture.

What were the traditions of the Aztecs?

Known throughout the world, the Aztec culture was one of the most advanced in many branches despite the era in which they lived. They created an empire that is still very present today in the Mexican culture that is breathed in traditions and festivities.

Although they are known as Aztecs, the name comes from Aztlan, the city from which they are believed to have originated. They are a great union of Mesoamerican peoples with great similarities such as language, traditions and customs.

Currently, a large number of handcrafted objects have been collected and found, such as figures, sculptures, among others, of a religious nature that show their devotion to various gods (they were polytheists). There are 15 main deities known to which they worshipped, and in three main groups: creator gods, gods of worldly pleasures and gods of sacrifice or war.

Other elements of daily life have also been found that show what their daily life, consumption and other routines were like.

Ancient customs of the Aztec culture

Their main language is Nahuatl, which is still spoken today in several towns in the country.

In terms of day-to-day customs, women were in charge of household chores, which they also taught their children. The men, on the other hand, dedicated themselves to agriculture, work and other types of labor that they would later pass on to their children.

The main crop was corn, which was used for food, and cocoa was the main product to be traded. In fact, one of the main appetizers that are still very present in Mexican cuisine today, we have already told you about it and we encourage you to prepare your own totopos.

They also had more special customs that are now very characteristic of Aztec culture: for example, the popular ball game.

Aztec festivals and ceremonies

Almost all the festivals, traditions and ceremonies of the ancient Aztecs revolve around the current 365-day calendar, which were dedicated to the gods. These include around 19 different festivals. One of the most important was the rain festival for good and abundant harvests.

Human sacrifice was also a very important part of Aztec customs. In some cases cannibalism was also practiced after death. Depending on the god to whom the offering was sent, the type of death and the type of living being sacrificed varied: underwater drownings, self mutilations, murders of prisoners after wars, and even children were given as gifts.