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All Mexico Mexico City Eagle Cuauhxicalli
AO Edited

Eagle Cuauhxicalli

This avian-shaped stone that once held the hearts of Aztec human sacrifices now lies at the feet of Christ inside a Catholic church.

Mexico City, Mexico

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Patricio Orden
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About

The Catholic church of El Señor del Buen Despacho, or The Lord of the Prompt Dispatch, is home to a relic of the area's pre-Hispanic past. Excavations conducted adjacent to the church between 1980 and 1982 uncovered a sacrificial stone called a cuauhxicalli, roughly translating to "eagle vessel." After a ceremonial sacrifice, the Aztecs placed freshly harvested hearts on these avian-shaped stones. These vessels were seen as offering plates to the gods.

Today, the village of Tlacoquemécatl, where this church is located, has since been completely absorbed by Mexico City. Still, hints of its past remain: From street layouts and names to the cuauhxicalli stone that sits at Christ's feet.

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Hearts Aztec Churches

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Service hours are Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 6:45 p.m., as well as Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m..

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Porden

Published

February 14, 2025

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Eagle Cuauhxicalli
137 Adolfo Prieto
Mexico City, 03200
Mexico
19.378204, -99.171104
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Nearby Places

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Photo of Mexico City

Mexico City

Mexico

Places 180
Stories 17

Nearby Places

Parroquia de la Divina Providencia (Parish of Divine Providence)

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miles away

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miles away

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miles away

Explore the Destination Guide

Photo of Mexico City

Mexico City

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