Gift from the gods
This article recounts the Aztec myth of the god Quetzalcoatl, who brought the gift of cacao to humanity. The story details how he was eventually tricked by the god of darkness, leading to his departure from Earth.
Why it matters
It provides cultural context regarding the historical and mythological significance of cacao in Mesoamerican civilization.
L ong ago, the Aztec people believed there was a kind and wise god named Quetzalcoatl. He was the god of learning and loved helping people.
One bright morning, Quetzalcoatl came down to Earth on the rays of the morning star. The people were grateful that he had come to live with them. They built him a grand five-storey temple with giant stone pillars. Butterflies decorated the walls, and fierce tiger statues guarded the entrance. In return, Quetzalcoatl wanted to give the people a special gift. The gods had a magical plant that they kept only for themselves. They used its beans to make a delicious drink that no human was allowed to taste.
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