Why did Montezuma allow Cortés to enter the Axtec's capital city?

Montezuma allowed Cortés to enter the Aztec capital of Tenochtitlán because he believed Cortés might be a divine figure, possibly the god Quetzalcoatl, whom Aztec prophecy suggested would return. Additionally, Montezuma sought to understand the intentions of the Spanish and hoped to establish a diplomatic relationship. His decision was also influenced by the overwhelming military power of the Spanish and their allies, which he underestimated. Ultimately, this choice led to the downfall of the Aztec Empire.