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Olmec

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description Olmec Overview

The Olmec were an ancient Mesoamerican culture centered on the southern Gulf Coast of present-day Mexico, especially the lowlands of Veracruz and Tabasco. Flourishing during the Formative period, roughly 1500 to 400 BCE, they are known archaeologically for ceremonial centers, carved jade and basalt objects, distinctive iconography, and colossal stone heads; the heads' subjects are commonly interpreted as human figures, but their identities are not documented.

help Olmec FAQ

Where and when did the Olmec flourish?

The Olmec heartland was on the southern Gulf Coast of present-day Mexico, especially in Veracruz and Tabasco. Their main Formative-period development is usually dated from roughly 1500 to 400 BCE.

What are the famous Olmec colossal heads made from?

They are monumental basalt sculptures associated with sites such as San Lorenzo and La Venta. Archaeologists generally interpret them as portraits or representations of powerful individuals, but no securely identified named ruler is known.

Was the Olmec a centralized empire like the Aztec Empire?

The Olmec are better described as an archaeological culture with major ceremonial centers than as a documented centralized empire. Sites such as San Lorenzo and La Venta show regional influence, monumental construction, and long-distance exchange.

What happened to San Lorenzo and La Venta?

San Lorenzo was an early major Olmec center, while La Venta became especially important later, around 900 BCE. Both sites are central to reconstructing Olmec ceremonial architecture and political organization.

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