Smithsonian Magazine · People & society

Aztec Codex Returns to Mexico After Nearly Two Centuries

The Azcatitlan Codex, a significant pictographic account of Aztec history, is on display in Mexico City's National Museum of Anthropology for three months, marking its first return to Mexico since 1840.

Created between the late 16th and early 17th centuries, the codex details the Mexica migration, the reigns of Tenochtitlan's rulers, and the Spanish conquest. Tenochtitlan, founded in 1325, became the Aztec capital and expanded significantly before its fall to Spanish conquistadors in 1521.

The codex's return has reignited discussions about its ownership. It passed through several hands before being acquired by a Franco-Mexican collector and eventually donated to France's National Library around 1898, leading to claims from both France and Mexico.

Mexican officials emphasize the cultural importance of such codices for identity and heritage. Despite past tensions over stolen artifacts, Mexico will not attempt to reclaim the Azcatitlan Codex during its temporary exhibition.

This temporary return is a symbolic gesture celebrating 200 years of Franco-Mexican diplomacy, facilitated by Mexico's loan of the Boturini Codex to France. The Azcatitlan Codex is displayed under protective glass, with photographs of other folios also exhibited.

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