Archaeologists Find 500-Year-Old Aztec ‘Starfish Altar’ in Mexico City

Archaeologists in Mexico City made a striking discovery last year: a 500-year-old altar from the Aztec civilization, decorated with shells and 164 starfishes. The artifact, which dates to around the year 1500, was found at the Templo Mayor Archaeological site, in Mexico City. The ceremonial structure features a particular kind of starfish, known as ‘chocolate chip sea stars.’ Their mottled orange and black bodies resemble the skin of jaguars. Jaguar bones were also found in the altar.