The Mayans called the drink “chocolhaa” (“bitter water”) and Aztecs called it “Xocolatl.” From those words eventually evolved the word “chocolate.” Cacao was used in special celebrations such as those for funeral rituals, war, or harvests.

“Chocolate” comes from Nahuatl, the language of the Aztec Empire. The word “cacao” was used by the ancient Maya, but the word likely originates with the Mije-Sokean language family.

The Mayan written history mentions chocolate drinks being used in celebrations and to finalize important transactions and ceremonies. Despite chocolate's importance in Mayan culture, it wasn't reserved for the wealthy and powerful, but was readily available to almost everyone.

For Maya people, cocoa beans are used as currency. We know, for example, that a rabbit costs 10 beans, an earthen pot between 12 and 25 beans. Cocoa is also used for its medicinal properties, Maya people realised its revitalising qualities, and they use it to reduce indigestion, coughs, burns, and even stomach aches.