The Aztecs were a Mesoamerican civilization that thrived in central Mexico from the 14th to the 16th centuries. They established a powerful empire known for its advanced agricultural practices, impressive architecture, and rich cultural traditions. The capital city, Tenochtitlán, was built on an island in Lake Texcoco and featured grand temples and bustling markets. The Aztecs practiced a polytheistic religion, worshipping many gods, including Huitzilopochtli, the god of war. They are also known for their complex social structure, which included nobles, priests, and commoners. The arrival of Spanish conquistadors in the early 16th century led to the decline of the Aztec Empire.