Mictlan

Mictlan is the underworld in Aztec mythology, where souls journey after death. It is a complex realm characterized by nine levels, each with unique challenges, reflecting the Aztecs’ views on the importance of living a proper life. Souls typically reach Mictlan if they die from natural causes, undergoing a difficult passage to reach peace. The realm is ruled by Mictlantecuhtli, the god of death, and his wife, Mictecacihuatl. Despite its association with death, Mictlan is considered a necessary part of the cycle of life, emphasizing respect for ancestors and the moral foundation of Aztec society.