Patolli

Patolli is an ancient Mesoamerican gambling game played by the Aztecs and other cultures, dating back centuries before European contact. The game involves a cross-shaped board, colored beans or stones, and dice or marked sticks. Players wager beans or valuables, moving pieces along the board based on dice rolls, aiming to reach the end first. It combined elements of chance and strategy, often held for social, ritual, or political reasons. Patolli reflected significant cultural practices, including divination and ceremonial activities, illustrating its importance beyond mere entertainment.