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Great Temple Expansion Project
Beginning in the 1440s, Moctezuma I oversaw the large-scale expansion of the Great Temple (Templo Mayor) in Tenochtitlan, a double pyramid dedicated …
Timeline
- c. 1440–1442Great Temple of Tenochtitlan · Valley of MexicoMoctezuma I ordered new layers to be built over the old temple foundations, planned a dual-shrine structure, and collected stone, timber, and craftsmen from allied states.
- c. 1443–1448Valley of Mexico · Valley of MexicoTens of thousands of laborers built up the platform and stairways in the center of the capital, with tribute from allied states continuously arriving at the site; the project became a symbolic undertaking of the Triple Alliance's resource integration.
- c. 1448–1449Great Temple of Tenochtitlan · Valley of MexicoThe new temple layer was completed in stages, with grand sacrifices and audiences by envoys from allied states, consolidating Moctezuma I's authority as both religious and political leader.
Sources
- The Templo Mayor of Tenochtitlan: History and Interpretation — Johanna Broda (1987)
- The Aztecs — Richard F. Townsend (2009)