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Tres Zapotes
18.4667° N, -95.4333° E
About
Tres Zapotes is a Mesoamerican archaeological site located in the south-central Gulf Lowlands of Mexico in the Papaloapan River plain. Tres Zapotes is sometimes referred to as the third major Olmec capital (after San Lorenzo Tenochtitlán and La Venta), but the Olmec phase is only a portion of the site's history, which continued through the Epi-Olmec and Classic Veracruz cultural periods. The 2000-year existence of Tres Zapotes as a cultural center is unusual, if not unique, in Mesoamerica.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Founding
centuries before 1000 BCE
Earliest public architecture
c. 500 BCE
Earlier Long Count comparison (Chiapa de Corzo Stela 2)
36 BCE
Stela C Long Count correlation
September 3, 32 BCE
Classic era activity and decline
starting c. 300 CE
Emergence as regional center
c. 900–800 BCE
Colossal head discovery (Rancho la Cobata head)
1862
Stela C (bottom half) discovery
1939
Stela C top half discovery
1969
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Public and Civic Structures
Industrial and Craft Structures
Religious and Ritual Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Environmental and Natural Features
Astronomical and Timekeeping Structures
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
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