Corn (el maíz) is the treasure of this legend. It grew hidden behind the mountains, where neither the Aztecs nor the ancient gods could reach it. Quetzalcóatl brought back a single ripe kernel, and the Aztecs planted it, cared for it, and harvested it.

Corn became the food and the foundation of Aztec life. With it, the people grew strong and rich, and their civilization — with its cities, palaces, and temples — flourished. To this day, corn remains at the heart of Mexican food and culture.