The Enigma of Monte Albán: A Mesoamerican Marvel
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Chapter 1: The Rise of Monte Albán
Monte Albán stands out as a significant city in the history of Mesoamerica. What factors contributed to its remarkable prominence? This ancient Mexican city thrived for over a millennium, shaped by the influences of the Olmecs, Zapotecs, and Mixtecs. Surprisingly, it was situated in a location that was not ideal for habitation. So, what drove its success?
[Photo: Liliana Saeb, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons]
Today, Monte Albán exists as a mere shadow of its former self. Yet, during its peak in Mesoamerican times, it was a vital city, inhabited by various Native American groups for centuries. Despite its elevation of 2,000 meters above sea level and situated 400 meters above the surrounding valleys, archaeological findings indicate that the city prospered under challenging conditions.
Where is Monte Albán located?
Nestled near the town of Santa Cruz Xoxocotlán, Monte Albán is approximately 5 kilometers from Oaxaca in the Sierra Madre South mountains. Research has revealed that the hill where the ancient settlement was constructed was artificially leveled, a strategic choice for defensive purposes.
Around a vast platform measuring roughly 950 by 450 meters, Native Americans erected a series of buildings that encircled what is known as the Great Square. Two grand temples, built on stepped pyramids, were positioned to the north and south of the city. Archaeologists also uncovered a uniquely designed building resembling an observatory, along with over a hundred graves where affluent citizens were interred, some located beneath the rulers' palaces.
Most inhabitants resided in adobe brick homes, built on sturdy stone foundations. Monte Albán was also renowned for its distinctive terraces.
[Photo: LBM1948, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons]
Chapter 2: The Secrets of Success
Researchers from the United States sought to unravel the mystery behind Monte Albán’s extraordinary success. They examined how an ancient city, lacking nearby water access and positioned 2,000 meters above sea level, managed to attract people from far and wide for over a millennium. Their findings were published in the journal Frontiers in Political Science.
“We aimed to comprehend why this settlement thrived in its particular location,” stated Linda Nicholas, an archaeologist involved in the research.
Traditionally, cities flourished where fertile land and water sources were accessible. Yet, Monte Albán defied this norm, prospering despite its less-than-ideal environment.
“We had conducted archaeological work in the Oaxaca Valley for decades. The persistent question was how so many people were drawn to Monte Albán and why the city endured for such an extended time,” added Gary Feinman, an anthropologist and co-author of the study.
[Photo: Em?ke Dénes, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons]
What made Monte Albán unique?
The researchers evaluated the agricultural quality of the land in the vicinity and discovered that the ancient city was not positioned in the most fertile area. Feinman noted, “Regardless of the labor invested by the rulers of Monte Albán, discussing productivity is challenging here.” Thus, this factor was unlikely to be a draw for settlers.
Since the 1960s, scientists have analyzed materials and archaeological evidence spanning centuries in the Oaxaca Valley. To understand the functionality of this ancient city, founded around the 6th century BC, the researchers adopted a macro perspective. They revealed that the residents lived in profound social interdependence.
In the video "New Discoveries at Monte Albán: Buried Buildings & Political Transformation at the Zapotec Capital," explore the latest archaeological findings that unveil the political dynamics and architectural advancements of this ancient city.
The video titled "Oaxaca's ANCIENT PAST | Monte Alban and the Zapotecs" delves into the rich history and cultural significance of Monte Albán and its role in Mesoamerican civilization.
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