Topiltzin

Topiltzin Quetzalcoatl was a legendary ruler of the Toltec people, who dominated central Mexico from the 10th to the 12th century CE. The Toltecs, whose capital was Tollan (near modern Tula), were known for their militarism, craftsmanship, and the introduction of the cult of Quetzalcoatl, the Feathered Serpent deity, to Mayan cities. Topiltzin himself adopted the name of this deity.12

The Toltecs sacked the city of Teotihuacán around 900 CE. Later, under Topiltzin, they formed an empire. Their influence spread widely, and they are credited with creating fine metalwork, monumental sculptures, and the distinctive Chac Mool figures. The Toltec hegemony ended in the 12th century with invasions by nomadic groups, including the Aztecs. The historical accounts of Topiltzin are intertwined with myth, particularly his conflict with the god Tezcatlipoca and his eventual departure, often associated with the god's return from the east.132