Timeless Inventions of the Aztecs You Might Not Know About
The Aztecs were a civilization that thrived in Central America from the 14th to the 16th century. Known for their intricate rituals, exceptional engineering skills, and advanced agricultural techniques, the Aztecs were a people ahead of their time. Here are three timeless inventions of the Aztecs that you might not know about.
1. The Chinampa Farming System
The Chinampa farming system is a technique that involves the creation of fertile farmland from the bed of shallow lakes. The word ‘chinampa’ means ‘overgrown with reeds’ in the Nahuatl language spoken by the Aztecs. The technique involved building mounds of mud and organic matter, and then securing them in place using reeds and other plants. These mounds were then used for planting vegetables, maize, and other crops.
The Chinampa farming system enabled the Aztecs to grow crops on land that was previously unusable. This system was so successful that it is still used in some parts of Central America today.
2. The Aztec Sunstone
The Aztec Sunstone is a 12-foot-wide, circular stone that was discovered in Mexico City in the 1700s. The stone features intricate carvings and symbols that represent the Aztec belief in the cyclical nature of time. The stone was used to track the passage of the seasons, the movement of the stars, and the various gods and goddesses associated with them.
The Aztec Sunstone is considered one of the most important examples of Aztec art and culture. It is on display at the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City, where it is a popular tourist attraction.
3. The Xochimilco Canals
Xochimilco is a district in Mexico City that was once a network of canals used for transportation and agriculture by the Aztecs. The canals were built by hand, using a combination of techniques that included digging, dredging, and the construction of earthen berms.
Today, the Xochimilco Canals are a popular destination for tourists, who can take colorful, flower-adorned boats along the waterways. The canals are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are recognized as an important example of Aztec engineering and urban planning.
In conclusion, the Aztecs were a civilization that left a lasting legacy on Central American culture and society. The Chinampa farming system, the Aztec Sunstone, and the Xochimilco Canals are just a few examples of the timeless innovations that the Aztecs introduced to the world.
