Monte Alban Oaxaca Mexico pyramids pyramid Zapotecs
Monte Albán was built over a period of over 2,000 years, starting about 900 BCE, by the Zapotecs. The early art shows Olmec influence. The most impressive building period was during the Mesoamerican Classic era, from about 550 CE to 1000 CE. About 1300 CE, the Zapotec were driven out of the site and surrounding area by the Mixtec people. The Mixtec made further additions to Monte Albán until they in turn were conquered by the Spanish conquistadores in 1521, at which time Monte Albán was abandoned. Monte Albán has many step-pyramids, temples, elite tombs, and a court for playing the Mesoamerican ballgame. There are also free-standing sculptured stelae, and large bas-relief carved panels in some of the buildings. The site is built around the Gran Plaza, approximately 300 meters by 200 meters, which is ringed by the ruins of step pyramids and mounds. Three pyramids occupy the center of the plaza, along with the enigmatic Building J. Building J has invited much speculation due to its unusual shape and orientation. Alfonso Caso suggested it was an astrological observatory, and several researchers have found various astronomical alignments. The building, however, also features large carved slabs depicting upside-down heads, which Caso called "conquest slabs" depicting vanquished enemies. Mexico Latin Central America mexican hispanic spanish pacific travel ocean tourism latin latino America american culture americana continent continent country continents countries country culture cultures information location locations national culture national culturesinternational travel tourism tourist iountry sightseening iourney destination lifestyle holiday vacation national composition produce concept concepts idea theme setting activity beautifull spirit free live style active colour technique color ethnography ethnographic ethnographer ethnology statuary statue statues sculpture sculptures painting paint folklore art artwork art artistic artistry arts artwork create creativ
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Photo credit: © Peter Horree / Alamy / Afripics
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