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Quetzalcoatl is one of the most fascinating figures in Mesoamerican history – he is both a god, a historical figure and a symbol of knowledge.
Here are the most important things about him:
1. What does his name mean?
The name comes from the Aztec language (Nahuatl) and is a combination of two words:
Quetzal: The emerald green bird with long feathers, a symbol of heaven and freedom.
Coatl: A snake that crawls on the ground.
Symbolism: He unites heaven and earth, the spiritual and the material.
2. The God of Light and Civilization
Unlike many other Aztec gods, Quetzalcoatl was peaceful:
Creator: It is believed that he discovered corn and gave it to people so that they would not starve.
Teacher: He taught people writing, the calendar, medicine and metallurgy.
Opponent of bloody sacrifices: According to legends, he preferred offerings of flowers, butterflies, and precious stones to human sacrifices