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.
Origin Story
When Centeotl was born, the gods placed him in the earth. From his divine body grew all the plants that sustain humanity.
Both are grain deities whose blessing ensures agricultural abundance
Primary Sources
Historical texts and references
“The victim sacrificed at the Xalaquia wore a ritual dress made from the fibres of the aloe, and with this garment the maize-god Centeotl was clothed.”
