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From The Times
August 4, 2007

‘Aztec emperor’s tomb’ discovered

Archaeologists using ground-penetrating radar have detected underground chambers that they believe contain the remains of the emperor Ahuizotl, who ruled the Aztecs when Columbus landed in the New World. It would be the first tomb of an Aztec ruler to be found.

Ahuizotl, who extended the reach of the Aztecs as far as Guatemala, was the last emperor to complete his rule before the Spanish Conquest. Accounts written by Spanish priests suggest that the area was used by the Aztecs to cremate and bury their rulers — Ahuizotl was probably cremated in 1502. No rulers’ tombs have been found in part because the conquistadors built their own city over the Aztec ceremonial centre.

The Mexican archaeologists said that they had located a 2 x 2 metre (6 x 6ft) entryway into the tomb about 4m below ground, filled with water, rocks and mud. Water in the chambers, combined with the lack of oxygen, discourages decomposition of organic materials. Scientists hope to find offerings to the gods as well as human remains. (AP)

Farrukh, are you saying that the transition of Islam, in medieval times, from a wholesome, scientific-minded, de facto secular culture to an intellectually static death cult was due to contact with the Aztecs and their similar society? Your theory is interesting, but a bit provocative.

Felix, Nottingham,

Wouldn't it be fun if they found a Quran amongst his possessions, just for the heck of it.

Farrukh, Woking, UK

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