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Monte Albán was one of the most important cities in Mesoamerica. What was behind the success of this place?
Monte Albán was a rich and thriving cultural center of Mesoamerica for more than a thousand years. The development of this ancient Mexican city was influenced by the Olmecs, as well as the Zapotecs and Mistecs. Interestingly, Monte Albán was located in a place that was not conducive to settlement. What, then, was behind its success?
Today Monte Albán is a ruin and a mere substitute for its former glory. However, in Mesoamerican times it was an extremely important city, home to various Native American groups over several hundred years. Although the center was located 2,000 meters above sea level and about 400 meters above the valleys surrounding the hill, archaeologists have found that despite the unfavorable conditions, the city prospered greatly.
Where is Monte Albán located?
Monte Albán is located near the town of Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán. It is a small Mexican town, located about 5 kilometers from Oaxaca, in the Sierra Madre South mountains. Archaeologists have discovered that the hill on which the center of the ancient town was located was artificially leveled. Historians said that such a location facilitated defensive maneuvers.
