10 Things To Know About Mexico City's Aztec History

Mexico City is an incredible historical center with thousands of years of artifacts and culture. Before visiting Mexico City, it is good to have a basic understanding of Aztec culture. The Aztec Empire's downfall at the hands of the Spanish colonists is a story that can be seen throughout the city streets. Everything is a blend of Spanish and native cultures that can be seen in the architecture, food, art and overall city spirit. Start learning with these 10 facts about Aztec history.

10. Aztec homes usually had steam baths.

It is no surprise that Aztecs were known for great self-care remedies; after all, it was typical for all homes to be built with a steam room. Learn more about this at the world-famous Anthropology Museum, or take a tip from the Aztecs and visit one of Mexico City's luxurious spas that provide traditional treatments.

Related: Guide To Mexico City's National Museum Of Anthropology

9. Europeans arrived in the area in 1519.

Evidence of the Spanish explorers can be seen everywhere in Mexico City. Take a closer look at the different types of architecture as you walk around town, and note the names of streets, buildings and other landmarks.

8. The Aztec Empire was ruled by a political body called the Triple Alliance. 

The alliance includes the Acolhua people of Texcoco, the Mexicans in Tenochtitlán, and the Tepaneca people of Tlacopan. These three settlements spread out over most of what is modern day Mexico, so there are many Aztec artifacts all over the country - though the cultural center was and still is Mexico City.

7. There was a famine in Tenochtitlán from 1452-1454.

This great famine put the Aztecs at great risk for disease, which weakened the Empire greatly before the European explorers arrived 65 years later. Many of the crops the Aztecs relied on are still Mexican staple foods today - particularly corn. So when you grab a delicious snack of Mexican street corn, remember that this seemingly abundant crop once threatened an entire civilization when it ran low.

6. Aztecs are known for their chocolate.

The Belgians aren't the only ones famous for their chocolate. The Aztecs also ate a lot of this treat. Visit the Mucho Mundo Chocolate Museum to learn about the importance of chocolate to Aztec culture and to do some chocolate sampling yourself.

5. Aztecs had a image-based written language called N'ahuatl.

This beautiful language, vaguely similar to Egyptian hieroglyphics, allowed the Aztecs to govern a complex economy. Examples of this writing can be found at the national Anthropology Museum.

Related: Best Museums In Mexico City

4. In 1522, the ancient Aztec city of Tenochtitlán was rebuilt by the Spanish as Mexico City, capital of New Spain. 

Yes, that means Mexico City is an ancient city! Look for influences of Aztec culture in the modern city, there are hints of it everywhere.

3. The first king of Tenochtitlán was Acamapichtli.

He founded the Aztec Empire which was one of the most powerful pre-colonial American civilizations.

2. The Mexican flag depicts an Aztec myth.

As the legend goes, Aztecs followed their god, Huitzilopochtli, to a lake where they saw an eagle eating a snake while sitting on a cactus. Huitzilopochtli then told the people that that this spot would be their new home - which is now Mexico City. Take a close look at the Mexican flag and you will see this legend illustrated in the center.

1. The great pyramid at Tenochtitlán (now an archaeological site in Mexico City) was the location for ancient Aztec sacrifices.

To appease the gods, Aztecs made thousands and thousands of human sacrifices. Take some time during a visit to Mexico City to visit the ruins of the Tenochtitlán pyramid.

Cameron Bruns is the founder of BostonGreenBlog.com and co-author of Just Us Gals Boston. She lives in Boston's North End, where her goal is to promote ethical, stylish, and sustainable lifestyle choices to all Boston residents. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.