France Lends Ancient Aztec Codex to Mexico for 200 Years of Franco-Mexican Relations

The Codex Azcatitlán, a centuries-old document telling the story of the Aztecs and their fall after the arrival of Spanish conquistadors in pictograms, will be displayed in Mexico for the first time in 186 years. The manuscript has been held in France's Bibliothèque Nationale since 1898 but had already spent decades outside of Mexico before.

The Codex Azcatitlán is thought to have been drawn in the 16th Century. A few years after the arrival of the conquistadors in what is now Mexico. And is widely considered one of the most valuable and insightful tellings of the history of the Aztecs.

France has lent the codex to Mexico to mark 200 years of Franco-Mexican relations.

Return of Historical Artefacts

Mexico has long lobbied for the return of historical artefacts taken from the country in past centuries. And according to Mexico's ministry of foreign relations, last year more than 2,000 objects were successfully repatriated. The temporary exchange of the two codices was agreed by Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and her French counterpart.

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Emmanuel Macron, during a visit by the latter to Mexico last year.

Exhibition Details

The Codex Azcatitlán will be exhibited at the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City from Thursday. The exhibition is part of a broader effort to showcase Mexico's rich cultural heritage and promote greater understanding between the two countries.

The return of the codex marks an important milestone in Franco-Mexican relations. Which have been strengthened in recent years through increased trade and investment. The exchange of the two codices is seen as a symbol of cooperation and mutual respect between the two nations.

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Background on Codex Boturini

In return for lending the Codex Azcatitlán to Mexico, France will receive another priceless document, the Codex Boturini. The pictograms in the Codex Boturini narrate the story of the migration of the Aztecs. Also known as Mexica, from their ancestral homeland to the shores of Lake Texcoco, where they built Tenochtitlán.

The Codex Boturini is a significant cultural artifact that provides valuable insights into the history and mythology of the Aztecs. Its return to France will be seen as an important gesture of goodwill between the two countries.

Next Steps

The exhibition of the Codex Azcatitlán at the National Museum of Anthropology in Mexico City is expected to attract large crowds and generate significant interest in Mexican history and culture. The event marks a new chapter in Franco-Mexican relations, which are seen as an important aspect of regional stability and cooperation.

According to authorities, the exhibition will be accompanied by educational programs and cultural events aimed at promoting greater understanding between Mexico and France. The event is also expected to generate significant revenue for local businesses and support the development of tourism in Mexico City.