Tenochtitlán was built on an island in the middle of Lake Texcoco in the Valley of Mexico around 1325. The location was chosen because the Aztecs, a wandering tribe, followed a prophecy that instructed them to settle where they saw an eagle perched on a cactus devouring a snake-an image they found on this swampy island. This site was initially unattractive and unclaimed by other powerful groups in the valley, as it was surrounded by water and marshland that others avoided
. The island location provided natural defenses against attacks from rival cities, as the surrounding lake made it difficult for enemies to approach easily. The Aztecs ingeniously adapted to the environment by building chinampas-artificial islands for agriculture-and constructing causeways and canals for transportation and communication with the mainland. These causeways had removable bridges that could be taken down in case of attack, enhancing the city's defensibility
. Additionally, the strategic position at the edge of lands controlled by neighboring powers allowed the Aztecs to leverage alliances and military campaigns to expand their influence. Over time, Tenochtitlán grew into a powerful political, economic, and religious center, becoming the capital of the Aztec Empire and one of the largest cities in the pre-Columbian Americas
. In summary, Tenochtitlán was built where it was because the Aztecs followed a religious prophecy, took advantage of the natural defensive benefits of the island in Lake Texcoco, and developed innovative engineering solutions to thrive in a challenging environment. This location also provided strategic advantages that helped the Aztecs rise to power in central Mexico.
