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1200
1200 CE: Origins and Migration
The Mexica people begin their migration from Aztlán, a mythical northern homeland. Their journey marks the beginning of their long and transformative history, shaping their identity and destiny. This period marks the emergence of their tribal structure, warrior ethos, and deep religious devotion to Huitzilopochtli, their patron god. The spread of the Nahuatl language among different groups lays the foundation for cultural and political unity, shaping the future Aztec civilization. -
1250
1250 CE: Arrival in the Valley of Mexico
The Mexica temporarily settle in Chapultepec, a rocky hill near Lake Texcoco. They build small settlements but remain under the control of stronger city-states.
The Tepanecs of Azcapotzalco eventually drive them out, forcing them to seek refuge elsewhere. -
1325
1325 CE: The Founding of Tenochtitlán
Guided by a vision of an eagle perched on a cactus devouring a serpent, the Mexica found Tenochtitlan on a marshy island in Lake Texcoco. This legendary event marks the birth of what would become one of the greatest cities in the world. This site became the heart of the Aztec civilization, a testament to their ingenuity and determination in transforming a challenging environment into a thriving metropolis. -
Period: 1350 to 1400
1350-1400 CE: Early Development
Development of chinampas for agriculture to sustain the growing population. These "floating gardens" exemplify the resourcefulness of the Aztecs in maximizing their agricultural output. The chinampas not only provided food but also contributed to the aesthetic beauty of Tenochtitlan. 1375 Acamapichtli becomes the first ruler (tlatoani) of Tenochtitlán.
He strengthens the city’s political structure and military power. -
1400
1400 CE: Increased Conflict with Neighboring Cities
The Mexica serve as warriors for the Tepanecs of Azcapotzalco.
They grow stronger but remain under Tepanec rule, paying tribute. -
1428
1428 CE: War Against the Tepanecs
Itzcoatl, the fourth ruler of Tenochtitlán, leads a rebellion against Azcapotzalco.
The Mexica ally with Texcoco and Tlacopan, forming the Triple Alliance.
Together, they overthrow the Tepanecs and establish the Aztec Empire. -
Period: 1428 to 1469
1428–1469 CE: The Formation of the Aztec Empire
Between 1428 and 1469 CE, the Mexica rose to power, forming the Aztec Empire. In 1428, Itzcoatl led Tenochtitlán’s rebellion against the Tepanecs, forming the Triple Alliance with Texcoco and Tlacopan. After victory, Itzcoatl restructured history and governance. Moctezuma I (1440–1469 CE) expanded the empire, imposing tribute and strengthening military and religious systems. Grand temples, aqueducts, and causeways solidified Tenochtitlán’s dominance. -
Period: 1470 to 1502
1470–1502 CE: Expansion and the Golden Age
Ahuitzotl expands the empire to its greatest territorial extent, reaching Guatemala and the Gulf of Mexico.
Large-scale public works are constructed, including a major aqueduct system.
Human sacrifice increases as part of religious ceremonies to honor Huitzilopochtli.
Tenochtitlán becomes the largest and most powerful city in Mesoamerica. -
1487
Templo Mayor
The Templo Mayor is completed at Tenochtitlan and inaugurated with the sacrifice of 20,000 captives. The location was chosen with purpose as the temple was a stone improvement on the original shrine the first settlers of Tenochtitlan had built in honour of Huitzilopochtli in the Aztec founding legends. As the temple grew over the years, offerings and precious goods were ritually buried within its ever-expanding layers