Tlatelolco
Tlatelolco is a significant historical and cultural site located in what is now modern-day Mexico City, Mexico. Here are some key points about Tlatelolco:
Historical Background
- Tlatelolco was originally an independent Aztec city-state founded in the 14th century, situated on an island in Lake Texcoco. It was closely allied and later absorbed by its more powerful neighbor, Tenochtitlan.
- The city was known for its bustling market, which was said to be one of the largest in the Aztec Empire, attracting traders from across Mesoamerica.
- In 1521, Tlatelolco was the last stronghold of the Aztecs during the Spanish conquest, falling to Hernán Cortés after the fall of Tenochtitlan.
Key Events and Sites
- The Massacre of 1968: Tlatelolco Massacre, also known as the Plaza de las Tres Culturas massacre, took place on October 2, 1968, when Mexican government forces fired upon a crowd of unarmed protesters, resulting in numerous deaths. This event has since become a symbol of government repression in Mexico.
- Plaza de las Tres Culturas: This plaza is named for the three periods of Mexican history that it represents: the pre-Hispanic era, the Spanish colonial period, and the modern age. The site includes ruins of the Tlatelolco Temple, the Church of Santiago Tlatelolco, and a modern building housing the National Autonomous University of Mexico’s School of Medicine.
- Tlatelolco Codex: A pre-Columbian manuscript detailing the history of Tlatelolco and its rulers, which is an important source of information for scholars studying Aztec history.
Modern Significance
- Today, Tlatelolco is not only an archaeological site but also a residential and commercial area. The Plaza de las Tres Culturas serves as a poignant reminder of Mexico's complex history.
- The site has been declared part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site within the Historic Centre of Mexico City and Xochimilco.
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