The Sacred Festival of Toxcatl: A Look into the Aztec Tradition of Human Sacrifice

Toxcatl was a pre-Columbian Aztec festival celebrated in the month of Toxcatl (May 20 - June 19) in honor of the goddess Coatlicue. During this festival, human sacrifices were made, particularly of young children and adolescents, who were believed to be the most pure and worthy offerings. The victims were chosen based on their beauty, strength, and other desirable qualities.

The word "toxcatl" comes from the Nahuatl language and means "the time of the five flowers." This festival was considered one of the most important events in the Aztec calendar, and it was celebrated with great pomp and ceremony. In addition to human sacrifices, the festival included music, dance, and other rituals.

Toxcatl is also the name of a constellation in the Aztec mythology, which was believed to be the place where the souls of the sacrificed victims went after death. The constellation was said to be visible during the month of Toxcatl and was considered a sign of the approaching festival.