Folklore

The Mayans believed that cacao was a food of the gods and would depict their gods consuming a chocolate drink. Originally, due to its sacred origins, it was thought that only priests should drink it, but this was eventually extended to include priests and the wealthy. Drinking chocolate was used in several religious ceremonies, from weddings to funerals, for its spiritual power. The Mayans also celebrated a festival in April to honour the god Ek Chuah, who was believed to be the god of cacao.

The Aztecs also believed that there were links between cacao and their gods. They said that the god of harvest, Quetzacoatl, had originally brought the cacao tree to earth and shown the people how to cultivate it and make a drink from its fruit. Not many could afford the drink, but it was believed that wisdom and strength were granted to those who consumed it. The Aztecs also forbade women from enjoying the drink, due its stimulating effects.