The Three Mexican Gods of Corn
In Mexican mythology, three main gods are connected to corn, an essential crop for ancient civilizations like the Aztecs. These gods are Centeotl, Chicomecoatl, and Xilonen. At CIMMYT, you can find these Gods in a few places, from murals to small statues. There is no question of their absence here, as CIMMYT prioritizes the history and other significance of corn as much as the science behind it.
Centeotl: Centeotl is the god of maize (corn). Often depicted as a young man, he represents the growth and nourishment that corn provides. As the primary food source, Centeotl was very important to the people.
Chicomecoatl: Chicomecoatl is the goddess of agriculture, especially corn. Her name means "Seven Serpents." She symbolizes the fertility and abundance of corn. She is usually shown holding corn or other produce, representing the earth's richness and fertility.
Xilonen: Xilonen is the goddess of young maize. She represents the tender, young corn that is just beginning to grow, a crucial stage for a successful harvest. Depicted as a young woman, Xilonen embodies the promise and potential of the crop.
These three deities represent different stages and aspects of corn, emphasizing its vital role in the daily life and survival of ancient Mexican societies.
Here at CIMMYT, you can find these three Gods that are closely connected with the area's culture all around! When touring the labs there are displays of these Gods on tables, they are represented in the museum, and even on mural all around the campus. This is such a cool thing to see because it shows how rooted corn and corn production truly is in Mexico. On my first day here, I was told that for Mexico corn was more than a crop, it was an ancestry and a culture. With each day here I find that this couldn't be more true!
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