Geography Reference
In-Depth Information
These data, together with ethnographic sources (ArchaeoNews, 2004, Harmon,
2005, Mladjov and Mladjov, 1999, Van Tilburg, 1995) and other sources
(Royal Engineers, 1960, Royal Engineers, 1952) were used in conjunction
with GIS slope analysis during this study. The following section describes the
GIS research methodology associated with the megalith transport research.
Analyses are detailed and conclusions outline its application to Olmec
megalith transport and issues arising from this approach using GIS.
O
LMEC
C
OLOSSAL
H
EADS AND
T
HEIR
M
EGALITH
T
RANSPORT
The Olmec are often referred to as the ―Mother Culture‖ a title that is
debated. This society held a sphere of influence some 200 kilometres long and
80 kilometres wide (125 x 50 miles) known as the ―heartland‖, At its centre
during a period between 1200-900BC known as the Preclassic was the San
Lorenzo (SL) Plateau, the political hub of the period. Situated some 60
kilometres (38 miles) from the Gulf of Mexico, the SL Plateau is a partly man
made ridge around 1200 metres long and rising some 45 metres above the
extensive floodplains and swamplands, characteristic of the Rio Coatzacoalcos
Basin. Its position and elevation make the plateau a dominant feature over this
area, underwritten by the agriculturally productive floodplains that supported
the general population and its hierarchy comprising artisans and rulers.
Photo Leslie C. Hazell.
San Lorenzo Head 1; Xalapa Museum of Anthropology.
