The Aztecs were a powerful civilization that thrived in central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th century. They built impressive cities, with Tenochtitlán being their capital, located on an island in Lake Texcoco. The Aztecs were known for their advanced agricultural techniques, including floating gardens called chinampas, which allowed them to grow crops efficiently. Religion played a significant role in Aztec life, with many gods representing different aspects of nature and society. They practiced rituals, including human sacrifices, to honor these deities. The Aztec Empire was eventually conquered by Spanish explorers led by Hernán Cortés in the early 1500s, marking the end of their civilization.