The Spatial Divisions of the Aztec Calendar

In order to comprehend the distribution of space within the design of the Aztec Calendar, we searched its image for a distinct pattern that might not follow the 8-segment circle which is so obvious to its design.

Consider the tails of the serpents (Xiuhcoatls), which appear to represent a break in the overall circular design:

Xiuhcoatl

Xiuhcoatl

These two mythical and celestial serpents are thought to be in a constant struggle between themselves. The serpent to the left is known as the god Xiuhtecutli (god of the night), and the one to the right as the god Tonatiuh (the Sun).

To our mind there appear to be two pathways (or channels) marked on the tails of these two opposing serpents. Through these pathways, it would appear that the chalchihuitliques might pass through them.

One may see how the tails between the two pathways lie between the two uppermost towers, and thus mark off one of the 8 segments of the calendar's circular design. This segment, it would appear, distinguished itself from the other seven segments in that it suggests an open-ended design.

The remaining seven segments appear to be enclosed, except possibly for the entrance point marked off by the heads of the serpents.

Also note how the tails of the serpents dip into the plane of the innermost circle next to them, the ring of towers (merlones). Such considerations suggest a distinct way of conceiving the space allotment within the calendar. Since this particular segment appears to behave differently from the others, it should be accounted for separately. The remaining 7 segments of the circle may then be considered a whole, as in the following illustration.

Consider the following. The number of degrees within each of the 8 segments is 45 degrees (8 x 45 = 360). By subtracting one segment from the circle's 360 degrees, a configuration of 7 segments is created that encloses 315 degrees. This configuration offers a naturally created 7-segment shape, each with 45 degrees.

The 7-segment, 315-degree configuration, may now be further divided evenly by the number 5, creating five 63-degree segments. From a numerically abstracted point of view, the 7-segment configuration can represent the 364-day count (360c; count written as c); while the 5-segment configuration can represent the 260-day count (260c). This is confirmed when we consider that each segment could represent 52 days in both cases. For,