Sun Stone

Definition

The Sun Stone, also known as the Calendar Stone, is a large monolithic sculpture created by the Aztecs, which represents their cosmology and calendar system. It features intricate carvings that symbolize various elements of Aztec mythology, including the creation of the world and the cycles of time, making it an important artifact for understanding the cultural and religious practices of Mesoamerican civilizations, particularly the Aztecs.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Sun Stone is approximately 12 feet in diameter and weighs about 25 tons, showcasing the impressive craftsmanship of Aztec artisans.
2. The stone features a central depiction of Tonatiuh, the Aztec sun god, surrounded by symbols representing different days and months in their calendar.
3. Originally thought to be a sacrificial stone, archaeological studies have revealed its primary function as a calendar marker rather than a ritualistic object.
4. The Sun Stone was buried after the Spanish conquest and rediscovered in 1790, becoming a symbol of Mexican national identity and pride.
5. Today, the Sun Stone is housed in the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City and continues to draw visitors interested in Aztec culture and history.

Review Questions

• How does the Sun Stone reflect the cosmological beliefs of the Aztecs?
  • The Sun Stone embodies the cosmological beliefs of the Aztecs by depicting their understanding of time and mythology. The intricate carvings illustrate not only the cycles of their calendar but also significant deities, particularly Tonatiuh, representing their sun god. This artistic representation reveals how central these beliefs were to Aztec society, as they linked their agricultural practices and religious rituals to celestial events.
• Compare and contrast the Sun Stone with other Mesoamerican calendars like the Maya Tzolk'in and Xiuhpohualli.
  • The Sun Stone serves as a vital calendar for the Aztecs, similar to how the Tzolk'in and Xiuhpohualli functioned for the Maya. While both Mesoamerican civilizations utilized calendars that intertwined agricultural cycles with religious events, there are key differences in structure. The Tzolk'in is a 260-day ritual calendar focusing on spiritual aspects, while the Xiuhpohualli is more aligned with solar cycles. In contrast, the Sun Stone combines these elements into a single monumental representation that highlights its importance in Aztec culture.
• Evaluate the significance of the Sun Stone's rediscovery in shaping contemporary Mexican identity.
  • The rediscovery of the Sun Stone in 1790 marked a pivotal moment in shaping contemporary Mexican identity by reconnecting modern Mexicans with their indigenous heritage. As a symbol of pre-Columbian culture, it has been embraced as an emblem of national pride and cultural revival. This stone not only highlights the artistic achievements of the Aztecs but also serves as a reminder of Mexico's rich history, contributing to ongoing discussions about indigenous rights and cultural preservation in contemporary society.

Related terms

Tzolk'in: A 260-day ritual calendar used by the Maya, consisting of a cycle of 20 periods of 13 days each, closely tied to agricultural and religious events.

Xiuhpohualli: The 365-day solar calendar used by the Aztecs, which divided the year into 18 months of 20 days each, plus an additional period for festivals.

Pyramid of the Sun: One of the largest structures in Teotihuacan, believed to be a center for religious and ceremonial activities and closely related to sun worship in ancient Mesoamerican cultures.