Cocoa and Our Roots

Hello Dearest

Today we want to invite you on a journey back in time, exploring how cacao, our star ingredient, has been a symbol of tradition and culture in Mexico since pre-Hispanic times.

Since ancient Mesoamerican civilizations, cacao has been considered a divine gift, a sacred plant whose cultivation and use were deeply intertwined with daily and spiritual life. The Mayans and Aztecs valued cacao so much that they used it not only in religious ceremonies but also as currency, representing wealth and prosperity.

**The role of women in the history of cocoa**

But the history of cacao would not be complete without recognizing the fundamental role women have played in its cultivation, preparation, and marketing. In ancient civilizations, it was women who mastered the art of preparing cacao beverages, mixing it with spices and flowers to create xocolatl, the drink of the gods. This role was not only essential in domestic life but also had great social and religious significance, as many of these beverages were offered in rituals and ceremonies.

Over the centuries, women have continued to be guardians of cocoa traditions, passing down the secrets of its preparation from generation to generation and becoming entrepreneurs and leaders in the trade of this highly prized product.

**A legacy that continues**

At María Cacao, we are honored to be part of this rich heritage and to continue sharing the magic of cacao with you. We invite you to celebrate our roots and enjoy this ancestral treasure that connects our history with the present.

If you're interested in learning more about the history of cacao and its importance in pre-Hispanic cultures, we recommend *The True History of Chocolate* by Sophie and Michael Coe, a comprehensive study of the origin and evolution of cacao in Mesoamerica. You can also explore this topic in the historical references available in J. Eric S. Thompson's *Maya History and Religion* and in the Smithsonian article *A Brief History of Chocolate*.
https://www.smithsonianmag.com/arts-culture/a-brief-history-of-chocolate-21860917/

Thank you for being part of this community that values and honors Mexican traditions. May every sip of cacao remind you of the greatness of our roots!

With Love and Cocoa

Maria Cacao