pre-Co·lum·bi·an: belonging to the time before the arrival of Columbus in America
Mex·i·can: belonging to Mexico
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Little is known about the religious beliefs of the people living in Mexico before European contact. The only conclusions that can be made are using archaeological data or ethnographic data recorded by those who first made contact with them (neither of which can be conclusive). However, it is evident that seashells played an important part in the religious symbolism of the early inhabitants of Mexico. Seashells are often found in and around graves. They are believed to have symbolized the earth, the underworld, the realm of the dead , and perhaps rebirth and renewal. Conch shells probably symbolized water and were associated with several gods/goddesses.
Birds of prey including hawks, eagles and falcons are believed to have been sacrificed regularly in religious ceremonies. It is unknown exactly what animals were used as sacrifices before the conquest of native peoples by the Aztec, and then the Spanish.
Murals of animals are commonly unearthed in this region. It is believed that animals represented the religious realm to these people, not everyday life. Perhaps creating murals of decorated animals with human characteristics was their way of explaining what the after-life would be like. Perhaps it was just the result of creative fantasy. Regardless, the role of animals in art suggests that they were a pivotal part of native Mexican people's interpretation of religion, philosophy and science.
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