Centeotl

Lord of Maize

Centeotl ('Maize Deity') was among the most important Aztec gods, as maize was the foundation of all life. Without his blessing, the people would starve.

Child of Tlazolteotl

Centeotl was born to the earth goddess Tlazolteotl. After his birth, he descended into the earth and from his body grew the essential crops: maize from his hair, cotton from his ears, seeds from his nose.

Annual Renewal

The young maize god was celebrated in festivals marking planting and harvest. His death and rebirth paralleled the agricultural cycle.