The Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl myth of tragic love story is a part of Aztec Mythology. The Iztaccihuatl four snow-covered peaks are seen as a representation of a sleeping women’s head, chest, knee and feet. Popocatepetl lies on the north which still an active volcano.

The Mexico’s second and third highest volcanoes, Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl stand side-by-side.

Popocatepetl and Iztaccihuatl were a pair of lovers who loved each other madly. Iztaccihuatl was the most loved and beautiful princess in the kingdom while Popocatepetl was one of the best warriors. Their lives were simple and filled with happiness until Popocatepetl was arranged to go to the war.

Before leaving, he went to meet Iztaccihuatl’s father for her hand in marriage and her father accepted with the condition that would only when he returns with the head of enemy’s general.

Popocatepetl accepted and set out for his mission. In few months, his army turned victorious and they defeated the enemy. But before he could return the news of his death reached the kingdom which was purposely spread by an enemy warrior, all while Popocatepetl remained unaware.

Iztaccihuatl heard the news. The news was too much for her to bear and she fell into despair. She stopped eating in grief and fell into a deep sleep. No one could wake her up. Popocatepetl came back and could not believe what he heard, he immediately rushed to Iztaccihuatl.

But it was too late, Iztaccihuatl had passed away.

Popocatepetl decided to leave everything. He picked her up and climbed to the top of the mountain while carrying Iztaccihuatl. He put her down and lit a torch vowing that he would never out it out in the memory of Iztaccihuatl. He sat down beside her, accompanying her in death.

Time passed and bodies were covered by snow slowly turning them into two volcanoes that will remain together forever.

The volcano fire of Popocatepetl burns as passionately as his feeling for his beloved Iztaccihuatl and the fire eruption signifies his sorrow and griefs.