Drawing on exclusive access to the cultural treasures of Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), this accessible, colorful book tells of the complexity, richness, splendor, and mystery of the Aztec civilization. The book reflects the latest archaeological knowledge about the Mexican people and provides exclusive interviews with a range of international experts on Mexican life and culture. Included in the book are more than 200 color reproductions of treasures from the national museums of Mexico, archival documents, iconic codices featuring pictograms of Aztec writing, and rare archaeological images from the temples--particularly the Templo Mayor where human sacrifices were made less than 500 years ago. The story of the Aztecs is fascinating, dramatic, and ultimately tragic--from its mythic origins, rituals, and ways of life to its tragic conquest--and this visually stunning resource reflects the profound heritage of Aztec culture and its continuing importance at the heart of Mexican life today.