The Great Cities of the Pre-Columbian Americas

Before the arrival of Europeans in the Americas, the pre-Columbian civilization boasted several cities that rivaled and even surpassed the largest urban centers in Europe. Notable among these were Tenochtitlan, the Aztec capital, and other significant urban areas such as Cuzco. This article explores the size, history, and significance of these ancient cities.

Top Cities Before European Invasion

Among the earliest and largest cities in the pre-Columbian Americas, Tenochtitlan stands out as a prime example. At its height, between 1450 and 1521 during the Aztec Empire, Tenochtitlan was a vibrant metropolis with an estimated population of around 200,000 inhabitants. This made it one of the largest cities in the world during this era.

Interestingly, the only city in Europe that was larger was Paris, estimated at around 250,000 inhabitants. Other European cities were much smaller; for instance, Rome had around 55,000, and London had about 50,000 residents.

Other Prominent Cities

Alongside Tenochtitlan, another significant pre-Columbian city was Cuzco, the former capital of the Inca Empire. Cuzco, known for its strategic location at the heart of the empire, had a population that was estimated to be around 225,000 inhabitants. Cuzco was not just a political center but also a cultural and religious hub.

Both Tenochtitlan and Cuzco had well over 100,000 people, showcasing the complexity and size of pre-Columbian urban life.

The Size of Tenochtitlan

Tenochtitlan, which was located in what is now central Mexico, was a vast and intricate city. The bustling metropolis consisted of several islets in a lake connected by causeways, providing a unique and sophisticated urban structure. The city was home to an elaborate network of temples, palaces, residential areas, and marketplaces. By the time of the Spanish conquest in 1521, the city had been further expanded and was over half a million larger than any city in Europe at that time.

Notably, Tenochtitlan was systematically destroyed by the conquistadors, led by Hernán Cortés. The site was later rebuilt as modern Mexico City, standing as a testament to the enduring legacy of the ancient city.

Populous Cities of the Pre-Columbian Era

Two of the known largest cities were Tenochtitlan and Cuzco, with populations estimated at around 150,000 and 225,000 inhabitants respectively. While the exact figures are still debated, these estimates provide a clear indication of the size and sophistication of pre-Columbian urban centers.

It is important to note that native populations, especially the Aztecs, were more settled and had a rich tradition of city-building. In contrast, Europeans were primarily nomadic at the time, moving frequently and lacking the urban planning skills of their American counterparts.

Conclusion

The cities of the pre-Columbian Americas, particularly Tenochtitlan and Cuzco, were amongst the largest and most advanced in the world. These cities showcase the impressive achievements of pre-Columbian civilizations in terms of urban planning, infrastructure, and social organization. Understanding these cities helps to appreciate the complexity of pre-Columbian cultures and their significant contributions to human civilization.