Monte Albán's Classic-Period Peak

Timeline

1. 501–550Main plaza of Monte Albán · OaxacaThe layout of palaces and temples around the main plaza stabilized; the 'Dancers' reliefs recorded conquest and sacrificial scenes, and hieroglyphic inscriptions recorded ruler lineages and calendrical information. The complex reflects the highly organized religious and administrative system of the Zapotec state.
2. 520–580Valley of Oaxaca · OaxacaThrough military conquest and a tributary system, Monte Albán controlled secondary centers such as Mitla and Yagul within the valley, forming a clearly hierarchical network of city-states. Trade in pottery, textiles, and salt accumulated wealth for the city, sustaining continuous construction projects.
3. 530–600Oaxaca–Valley of Mexico trade route · MexicoArchaeological finds of Teotihuacan-style pottery and greenstone objects indicate trade and cultural exchange between the two cities. Yet Monte Albán consistently maintained an independent writing system and political structure, forming a parallel power center in southern Mesoamerica during Teotihuacan's apogee.