Numismatic Chronicles of the Roman Coins: A Blog for Collectors and Enthusiasts

Loading…   Photos by Stefan Chardakliev  The Conquest of the Aztec Empire by Hernán Cortés The fall of Tenochtitlan marks a significant event in the history of Mexico and the Aztec Empire. The conquest of Tenochtitlan by the Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés in 1521 resulted in the downfall of the Aztec Empire, which had been one of the most powerful and advanced civilizations in the Americas. The fall of Tenochtitlan also marked the beginning of Spanish rule and European dominance in Mexico.   Background of the Aztec Empire The Aztec Empire, also known as the Mexica Empire, was a Mesoamerican civilization that existed from the 14th to the 16th centuries. The empire was located in the Valley of Mexico and was known for its advanced agriculture, complex social structure, and impressive architecture. The Aztecs also had a powerful military and were able to conquer neighboring territories, expanding their empire.   Key Takeaways The fall of Tenochtitlan marked the en...

Loading… Born in 69 BC, Cleopatra was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, which had ruled Egypt for centuries. She ascended to the throne at the age of 18, following the death of her father, and immediately set about consolidating her power. She was a skilled diplomat and strategist, and she quickly formed alliances with Rome and other foreign powers in order to protect Egypt's interests. Cleopatra is one of the most famous figures in ancient history, known for her beauty, intelligence, and political savvy. As the last pharaoh of Egypt, she ruled during a time of great change and uncertainty, and her reign was marked by both triumphs and tragedies. Despite her many accomplishments, however, she is perhaps best remembered for her relationships with two of the most powerful men of her time: Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. Despite her early successes, however, Cleopatra's reign was marked by numerous challenges and setbacks. She faced rebellions from her own subjects as well as t...

Loading… A Sacrificial Tale According to Aztec mythology, the creation of the Fifth Sun is a significant event that marks the beginning of the current world. The Aztecs believed that there had been four previous suns, each of which was destroyed by the gods for different reasons. The gods Tezcatlipoca and Quetzalcoatl were responsible for creating the Fifth Sun, and their sacrifice was crucial to the process. In Aztec mythology, the creation of the Fifth Sun is a complex and fascinating story that involves the sacrifice of two gods. The gods Tezcatlipoca and Quetzalcoatl were tasked with creating a new world after the fourth sun was destroyed. To create the Fifth Sun, the two gods sacrificed themselves, and their blood became the sun and moon. This sacrifice was necessary to ensure the survival of humanity and the continuation of the world. The creation of the Fifth Sun is an essential part of Aztec mythology and provides insight into the beliefs and values of the Aztec people. The s...

Loading… A Powerful Aztec Deity As I delve into the rich history of the Aztec civilization, I am struck by the fascinating story of Huitzilopochtli, the god of the sun and war. According to Aztec mythology, Huitzilopochtli was born to the goddess Coatlicue, who became pregnant after she found a ball of feathers on a mountaintop and placed it in her clothing. The story of Huitzilopochtli's birth is a captivating tale that sheds light on the Aztec belief system and their reverence for the sun. The Aztecs believed that Huitzilopochtli was the protector of their people and that his birth was a significant event in their history. According to legend, Huitzilopochtli was born fully grown and armed and immediately set out to defend his mother from his jealous siblings. He ultimately defeated his enemies and became the god of the sun and war, a revered figure in Aztec mythology. The story of Huitzilopochtli's birth is just one example of the rich mythology and culture of the Aztecs. ...

Loading…   A Journey Through Mesoamerica's Mythology  Introduction The ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica have left behind a rich tapestry of myths and legends that continue to captivate our imaginations. Among these captivating tales, the legend of Quetzalcoatl stands out as one of the most intriguing and revered. In this article, we will embark on a journey through the mythical world of Quetzalcoatl, exploring the origins, characteristics, and cultural significance of this enigmatic deity . Origins of Quetzalcoatl: The Feathered Serpent God Quetzalcoatl, often referred to as the "Feathered Serpent God," holds a central place in the belief systems of several Mesoamerican civilizations, including the Aztecs and the Maya. The name "Quetzalcoatl" finds its origins in two Nahuatl words: "quetzal," signifying "feather," and "coatl," denoting "serpent." This divine entity was envisioned as a remarkable fusion of t...