Tzompantli

A Tzompantli is an ancient Mesoamerican structure, commonly found among the Aztec and other cultures, that served as a type of skull rack or display. It was used to hold the skulls of sacrificed individuals, often arranged on wooden or stone platforms, as a visual display of power, religious devotion, and remembrance of sacrifices. These structures were typically built near temples and held significant cultural and spiritual symbolism, representing offerings to gods and marking important ceremonial events. The Tzompantli provides valuable archaeological insight into the rituals, social hierarchy, and religious practices of pre-Columbian civilizations.