Ancient Peoples of Mexico

Follow in the footsteps of the lesser known, but fascinating cultures of Ancient Mexico. Journeying from Mexico City to the highlands of Oaxaca, we explore the legacy not only of the Aztec and Maya, but also of myriad other peoples: the Totonecs, Zapotecs and Mixtecs. Allies, enemies and rivals, they shared the same calendar systems, worshipped the same gods and practised human sacrifice. And their populations all depended on the cultivation of maize and the accompanying triad of beans, squash and peppers. Yet, they spoke a range of separate languages and produced an array of different styles in art and architecture that display a striking originality and vivacity. We travel the rugged, dramatic landscapes of Mexico seeing little-visited but spectacular sites, the discovery of which is transforming our understanding of Mesoamerica.