Cerro de las Mesas

Cerro de las Mesas: A Crucial Archaeological Site in Veracruz, Mexico

Cerro de las Mesas, an archaeological site of significant importance, is situated in the Mexican state of Veracruz, within the Mixtequilla area near the Papaloapan River, approximately 50 kilometers from the city of Veracruz. This site represents a settlement that was continuously occupied from 600 BC to 900 AD, marking it as a pivotal center for both the epi-Olmec culture and the classical culture of Veracruz. Notably, between 300 BC and 600 AD, it served as the capital of one of the regions, highlighting its historical and cultural significance.

The Site’s Location and Cultural Significance

Located on the western axis of the Olmec culture, Cerro de las Mesas became a central hub for the epi-Olmec culture and the classical culture of Veracruz following the decline of the Olmec civilization. This site, along with others such as La Mojarra and Tres Zapotes, played a crucial role in the cultural development of the region during the 3rd century AD.

The archaeological site is characterized by its small water holes and hundreds of earth mounds, sometimes arranged in small groups, created by its inhabitants during the Epi-Olmec period between 400 BC and 300 AD. This period also saw the influence of Teotihuacán in the archaeological record, indicating a broad cultural exchange.

Discoveries at Cerro de las Mesas

Among the notable discoveries at Cerro de las Mesas are 800 jade objects, some bearing Olmec dates, which were votively deposited at the base of one of the artificial mounds. Additionally, several stelae, particularly stelae 5, 6, 8, and 15, have been found, containing inscriptions that suggest the presence of a writing system.

The site is renowned for its Remojadas-style pottery figurines, which were frequently found as burial goods. The pottery from Cerro de las Mesas, especially from the Early Classic period, bears a strong resemblance to that of Teotihuacan, featuring slab-legged tripods. Potters at the site crafted large, hollow, handmade figures of the gods, and the most spectacular discovery was a cache of 782 jade objects, many of which demonstrate Olmec workmanship.

Cerro de las Mesas as a Redistribution Point

Cerro de las Mesas is interpreted as a redistribution point for materials from both Mexico and the Maya lowlands, particularly because the Classic occupation of the site contains abundant Teotihuacan materials and two Maya Long Count dates (AD 468 and AD 533). This suggests that Cerro de las Mesas played a significant role in the trade and cultural exchanges between different regions of Mesoamerica.

Conclusion

Cerro de las Mesas stands as a testament to the rich cultural heritage and complex history of the Veracruz region in Mexico. Its strategic location and the wealth of archaeological findings make it a crucial site for understanding the epi-Olmec culture, the classical culture of Veracruz, and the broader Mesoamerican civilizations. The discoveries at Cerro de las Mesas continue to provide invaluable insights into the social, economic, and religious practices of its inhabitants, making it an essential subject of study for archaeologists and historians alike.

Sources:
Wikipedia
Research Gate
Archaeologs