This authoritative book explores every aspect of pre-Columbian Mesoamerica, from Paleoindian times to
the sixteenth century.

It provides overviews of the best-known regional cultures, such as those of the Olmecs, Maya, Zapotecs and Aztecs, as well as balanced coverage of regions such as West Mexico, Guerrero and the Gulf lowlands.

The book describes every major site, from La Venta and Monte Albán to Teotihuacan, Palenque and Tenochtitlan. It includes detailed discussion of major cultural themes, such as the ball game, maize cultivation, language and the development of the calendar, and is lavishly illustrated with photographs, drawings and maps. It has now been thoroughly updated to include new interpretations and recent discoveries such as the San Bartolo Maya murals and the Cascajal block with Olmec ‘writing’.