Recreating the Tenochtitlan and its Sacred Precinct

The theme of "colonialism" is a common one in the study of ancient architecture. This week we will be discussing Tenochtitlan, the centre of the Aztec world. Unfortunately, it is very difficult to understand what the ancient capital may have been like, because it is buried underneath modern day Mexico City. Fortunately, it is still possible to examine some of the Aztec foundations onto which the Spanish built their city-- this can teach us much about Aztec architectural practices. 

Surrounded by the waters of Texcoco, Tenochtitlan was the Aztec capital accessible only by causeways. The city centre was compressed into the heart of the complex, featuring the markets, pyramids, temples, and royal housing. Urban downtown was surrounded by grid planned, highly organized city living quarters. 

Artist's Depiction of Tenochtitlan
Source - http://mrmoyer.pbworks.com/w/page/2
1727065/Geography%20Aztec

Wars carried on between the Spanish and the Aztecs. Despite the Aztec population outnumbering the visiting Spanish,  the Aztecs were eventually defeated (most likely due to the highly organized Spanish military formations, protective armour, and their focus on the success of the group as opposed to the Aztec focus on individual glory). The Spanish captured Tenochtitlan in the 16th century.  Impressed by the city's well organized grid plan and grand temples, the invaders can be quoted as wondering whether "it was only a dream". 

Aztec Ruins in Mexico City
Source - http://www.cromwell-intl.com/travel/m
exico/mexico-city-tepoztlan.html

The Spanish were so impressed by Tenochtitlan that they proceeded to build their empire on top of the Aztec city, using it as a guideline. For example, the Spanish Metropolitan Cathedral can be found on top of what was once the Aztec's Main Dual Pyramid Temple. 

Metropolitan Cathedral, Mexico City
Source - http://www.delange.org/MetC
ath/MetCath.htm

Building on top of the Aztec capital is the ultimate display of power over the Aztec people. The Spanish recognized a means of using Tenochtitlan for their own benefit. Eventually, the surrounding waters of Texcoco were drained to allow for even further expansion of Mexico City. Today, the area is hardly recognizable as the once proud Tenochtitlan; the Spanish used the Aztec city for their own development. 

Lonely Planet. “Introducing Mexico City.” Accessed March 6, 2013. http://www.lonelyplanet.com/mexico/mexico-city

Roth, Leland M. Understanding Architecture: Its Elements, History, and Meaning. Colorado: Westview Press, 2007.

Tenochtitlan Facts. “About Tenochtitlan.” Accessed March 5, 2013. http://www.tenochtitlanfacts.com