PXL_20250413_164447220

Sat, 14 Feb 2026 07:49:22 +0100

Model of the Templo Mayor compound

This archaeological zone and museum preserve the remains of the most important Mexica building, the Templo Mayor (Great Temple), and others once part of the civic-ceremonial center of Mexico-Tenochtitlan.

The Templo Mayor was a sacred space, navel of the cosmos, the center radiating four causeways that organized the city layout, while symbolizing the directions of the universe.

The Great Temple embodied the dual vision of the cosmos and was a mirror of the empire, growing in size and splendor as Tenochtitlan augmented its power. Two temples dedicated to the rain god and the war god crowned its summit.

Here the Mexica people gathered to participate in the most important religious rites and to be spectators to mythical performances directed by priests. As part of the ceremonies, prayers and offerings were addressed to the gods so they would heed the peoples' requests.