The amphitheatre of dark hills surrounding the level plain, the two snowy mountain-peaks, the five lakes covering nearly half the valley, the city rising out of the midst of the waters, miles from the shore, with which it was connected by its four causeways, the straight streets of low flat-roofed houses, the numbers of canals crowded with canoes of Indians going to and from the market, the floating gardens moved from place to place, on which vegetables and flowers were cultivated, the great pyramid up which the Spanish army saw their captured companions led in solemn procession, and sacrificed on the top--all these are details in the mental picture.
Much of this has changed since the Spaniards first saw it.

Cortes tried all ordinary means to overcome the desperate obstinacy with which the Aztecs defended their capital.

The Spaniards conquered wherever they went; but, as they moved forward, the Mexicans closed in again behind, and from every house-top showers of darts, arrows, and stones were poured down upon them.

Cortes resolved upon the utter demolition of the city.

He was grieved to destroy it, he said, for it was the most beautiful thing in the whole world; but there was no alternative.