Humans logo

Uncovering the Fascinating Mayan and Aztec Civilizations of Mexico

The ancient civilizations of the Mayans and Aztecs

By David DevotoPublished 3 years ago 3 min read

The ancient civilizations of the Mayans and Aztecs have long been a source of inspiration and fascination for people all over the world. These cultures, which flourished in what is now Mexico, left behind a rich legacy of art, architecture, and religious practices that continue to captivate and inspire us to this day.

The Mayans, who flourished between 2000 BCE and 1500 CE in Central America and Mexico, were a highly advanced civilization known for their sophisticated system of writing, their astronomical calculations, and their impressive architecture. They built massive cities, including the renowned city of Tikal, which was home to some 100,000 people at its peak. The Mayans also created a calendar that is still used today and developed an advanced system of mathematics. Their architecture is exemplified by the impressive pyramids, palaces, and other monumental structures that still stand today. These architectural masterpieces were adorned with intricate carvings and mosaics that showcase the Mayans' exceptional artistic skills.

In comparison to the Mayans, the Aztecs were a more modern civilization, as their golden age occurred between the 14th and 16th centuries CE. The Aztec people founded an empire that eventually covered a significant portion of what is now the middle and southern parts of Mexico. They were well-known for the strength of their armies as well as the complexity of their religious rituals, which included the sacrifice of humans. The Aztecs constructed enormous pyramids and temples, such as the Great Pyramid of Tenochtitlan and the Temple of the Sun, both of which were adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures depicting the gods and goddesses of the Aztec pantheon. The architectural and artistic prowess of the Aztecs can be seen in these structures, just as it can be seen in the Mayan structures.

The art and architecture of these long-vanished civilizations are one of the most interesting aspects of those cultures. The Mayans and the Aztecs were highly skilled craftsmen and builders who produced intricate carvings, sculptures, and mosaics that continue to amaze people in modern times. Their architectural masterworks, such as pyramids, palaces, and temples, have withstood the test of time and can still be seen today. These structures offer a look into the past as well as a window into the lives of the ancient people who built them.

In addition to their art and architecture, the Mayans and Aztecs had highly developed systems of writing and communication. The Mayans created a system of hieroglyphics, which was used to record everything from historical events to everyday life. The Aztecs, meanwhile, used a system of picture writing called "glyphs," which were often used to record the deeds of their rulers and the history of their empire. These writing systems are not only important as a means of understanding these ancient cultures, but they also serve as a reminder of the advanced level of civilization these people had attained.

Even though the Mayan and Aztec civilizations disappeared many centuries ago, their legacies can still be seen in the country of Mexico's artwork, architecture, and cultural practices. The influence of these ancient civilizations can still be seen and felt in modern Mexico, from the breathtaking ruins of ancient cities to the vibrant art and music of modern Mexico. Exploring the fascinating Mayan and Aztec civilizations is a must for anyone traveling to this vibrant and captivating country, whether you are a history buff or simply someone who is fascinated by the rich culture of Mexico. This is a requirement for anyone visiting this country. People from all over the world continue to draw motivation and awe from the ancient civilizations' artistic and architectural creations, literary works, and religious practices, which continue to fascinate and amaze them.

travelhumanity

About the Creator

David Devoto

I am an experienced copywriter with a passion for travel and culture. Additionally, I enjoy writing about health, pets, food and anything else that interests me.

Reader insights

Be the first to share your insights about this piece.

How does it work?

Add your insights

Comments

There are no comments for this story

Be the first to respond and start the conversation.

Sign in to comment

    Find us on social media

    Miscellaneous links

    • Explore
    • Contact
    • Privacy Policy
    • Terms of Use
    • Support

    © 2026 Creatd, Inc. All Rights Reserved.