This is an extensively illustrated account of the development of the civilizations that emerged in Central America between the second millennium BC and the 16th century AD, including the Olmecs, the Maya, the Toltecs and the Aztecs, as well as others less well known, which gave rise to the Mesoamerican civilization. Producing highly original forms of art and architecture they also excelled in mathematics and astronomy before the destruction of Mesoamerica by the Conquistadors. Impressive architectural complexes, monumental sculptures, ceramics, jewellery and remarkable written records that have only recently given up their secrets have been left as extraordinary evidence of these civilizations.