Discover the Ancient Thrills of Patolli: Now Available from Ancient Origins!

Patolli, an ancient game of strategy and chance, once captivated the minds and hearts of Mesoamerica. It is one of the oldest games known in the Americas, with evidence for it being found in cultures such as the Maya and Aztecs. This game, much more than mere entertainment, reflected the cosmological views and societal values of its players. 

Patolli as depicted in Bernardino de Sahagún's General History of the Things of New Spain. Skilled players had their own game mats and their own playing pieces that they brought in tied cloth bundles. (Public Domain)

Step into the world of ancient Mesoamerica with Patolli, a game that has fascinated minds and stirred the spirits of players for centuries. Available exclusively through Ancient Origins, this beautifully recreated board game offers you a chance to experience the strategic depth and exciting chance elements that entertained the Aztecs, Maya, and other great civilizations long ago.

Why Patolli Stands Out

Patolli isn’t just a game; it’s a portal to the past, a chance to walk in the footsteps of ancient gamers. Originally played by cultures across Mesoamerica as far back as 200 BC, Patolli was more than mere entertainment—it was a reflection of the universe, embodying the cosmological views and societal values of its players.

Game Features:

• Authentic Design: Each Patolli board is a work of art, adorned with intricate designs inspired by original Mesoamerican motifs. The board, shaped in a distinctive cross symbolizing the universe’s cardinal directions, features 52 squares that align with the 260-day Mesoamerican calendar.
• Engaging Gameplay: The game is played by two to four opponents who navigate their pyramid-shaped markers around the board, determined by the casting of beans or sticks. This blend of strategy and luck captures the balance of fate and skill revered by ancient players.
• Cultural Connection: Every roll of the beans and movement across the board echoes the decisions made by ancient Aztec gods and players, inviting you to partake in a ritual that spans millennia.

Ideal for:

• History Enthusiasts: Dive into the rich tapestry of Mesoamerican history with every game.
• Board Game Aficionados: Add a unique and challenging game to your collection.
• Families and Friends: Enjoy a game night that’s different from anything you’ve played before.

Only at Ancient Origins can you bring home this meticulously crafted version of Patolli. Perfect for collectors and anyone seeking a unique gift, this game not only promises hours of entertainment but also serves as an educational tool, shedding light on the sophisticated intellectual pursuits of ancient civilizations.

Experience the intrigue and excitement cherished by the Aztec and Maya. Navigate your pieces through strategic moves and tactical decisions, and feel the thrill of high stakes that once involved precious stones or even personal freedom. Our recreation pays homage to the spirit of Patolli, offering an authentic experience that echoes through the ages.

Don’t miss the chance to own a piece of history. Whether you’re rediscovering this ancient game or experiencing it for the first time, Patolli from Ancient Origins promises to deliver excitement, challenge, and a touch of the past, all wrapped into one. Check it out in our shop and bring the legacy of Patolli into your home or game night.

Experience how a game can be more than play—it can be a journey through history and culture. Join us in reviving Patolli and keeping the rich intellectual traditions of ancient Mesoamerica alive in modern times. Remember, when you play Patolli, watch out for Macuilxochitl, the Aztec god of games, who might be peering over your shoulder!