Carpa Nan refers to the system of seasonal lake cultivation practiced in pre-colonial Mexico, specifically in the Valley of Mexico. This involved the construction of chinampas, or artificial islands, in shallow lake areas. These islands were highly fertile due to the constant access to nutrient-rich sediment dredged from the lake bottom. Maize, beans, squash, and other crops were cultivated intensively on these raised beds.
This agricultural technique was critical to supporting the dense population of the Aztec Empire, particularly in its capital, Tenochtitlan. The high agricultural productivity of the chinampas allowed for a surplus of food, which in turn supported specialization of labor and the development of a complex society. Furthermore, the system demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of hydrology and soil management, allowing the Aztecs to thrive in a challenging environment. Its efficacy speaks to indigenous innovation and adaptation.
