Summary of the Olmec Civilization

The Olmec Civilization

• Timeline: Developed around 1500 B.CE; declined around 400 B.C.E.
• Location: Yucatan Peninsula, Guatemala, and Honduras.
• Population: First cities in the Americas with thousands of inhabitants.
• Architecture:
  • Stone pavement and drainage systems.
  • Enormous basalt heads carved, notable remains of civilization.
• Characteristics of basalt heads:
  • Varying shapes and sizes.
  • Common features: flat noses, slightly crossed eyes, possibly reflecting Olmec people's traits.