Golden Aztec artifacts discovered in Mexico City

A sacrificial wolf elaborately adorned with some of the finest Aztec gold ever found and buried more than five centuries ago has come to light in the heart of downtown Mexico City.

The area was once home to the Aztec empire's holiest shrines.

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In Aztec culture wolves were considered the gods of war who may have helped fallen warriors make their way to the nether world.

Researchers believe the wolf was buried by a powerful and brutal Aztec king but more tests will be need to confirm whether the animal's heart was torn out as part of a symbolic sacrifice.