Worship of Quetzalcoatl and Kukulkan, the Feathered Serpent Gods
Origins and Iconography
Quetzalcoatl in central Mexico and Kukulkan in the Yucatán were depicted as feathered serpents, merging earth and sky symbolism. They embodied wisdom, fertility, and the creative forces of nature.
Ritual and Ceremonial Practices
Priests conducted offerings, processions, and festivals to honor these deities. The feathered serpent was invoked for agricultural abundance, political legitimacy, and cosmic balance. Temples and pyramids often featured serpent motifs integrated into staircases and façades.
Cultural Significance
The feathered serpent remained a symbol of continuity and cultural identity. Its influence extended to the Aztecs, Toltecs, and later Mesoamerican societies, signifying the persistence of sacred traditions across centuries.
