Tlaloc

The Rain Bringer

Tlaloc is one of the most ancient and important deities in Mesoamerican religion. His name derives from the Nahuatl word tlalli (earth) and may mean "He Who Makes Things Sprout." He controlled the rain essential for maize agriculture.

Unmistakable Appearance

Tlaloc is recognizable by his large goggle eyes, prominent upper lip with jaguar fangs, and often a headdress of heron feathers. He is typically painted blue or blue-green.

The Tlaloque

Tlaloc was served by lesser deities called the Tlaloque, small rain spirits dwelling on mountaintops who held water jars. When they broke their jars, rain fell.

Tlalocan: The Earthly Paradise

Tlaloc ruled Tlalocan, a verdant paradise where those who died by drowning or lightning went after death.

The Templo Mayor

Tlaloc's shrine occupied the northern half of the Templo Mayor's summit, painted in blue and white. Huitzilopochtli occupied the southern half.