Did the Christian conquerors of Mexico like Aztec religion?

The Christian conquerors of Mexico did not approve of Aztec religion. They considered the Aztec gods and rituals to be pagan and idolatrous. The Spanish Catholic missionaries who accompanied the conquistadors sought to convert the indigenous people to Christianity and suppress their native religious beliefs.

Here are some of the attitudes and actions of the Christian conquerors towards Aztec religion:

1. Religious Intolerance: The Spanish colonizers viewed the Aztec religious beliefs and practices as inferior and ungodly. They believed it was their duty to introduce Catholicism to the indigenous people and eradicate what they perceived as primitive religious practices.

2. Destruction of Temples and Idols: The conquerors systematically destroyed Aztec temples, shrines, and religious symbols. Many of the imposing Aztec structures were torn down, and their remains were used to construct Christian churches and cathedrals. The idols of Aztec deities were smashed and replaced with Christian imagery.

3. Forced Conversion: The indigenous peoples of Mexico were forced to convert to Catholicism. This was accomplished through various means, including coercion, indoctrination, and the threat of violence. Conversion efforts were led by Spanish friars and priests who established missions and schools throughout the region.

4. Suppression of Religious Practices: The conquerors prohibited many traditional Aztec religious ceremonies, rituals, and festivals. They viewed these practices as sacrilegious and a threat to the Christian faith. In some cases, severe punishment, such as torture or execution, was inflicted upon those who continued to engage in native religious activities.

5. Syncretism: In some cases, elements of Aztec religion were blended with Catholic beliefs and practices, resulting in syncretic religious forms. This was particularly evident in the cult of the Virgin Mary, who became associated with the Aztec goddess Tonantzin. However, such syncretism was often discouraged and suppressed by the Catholic authorities.

Overall, the Christian conquerors of Mexico displayed intolerance towards Aztec religion and were determined to eradicate its practices and influence from the region. They replaced the indigenous beliefs with Catholicism and sought to impose a uniform religious system on the conquered population.