What were the Olmec known for?

The Olmec civilization, which flourished in Mesoamerica from around 1400 to 400 BCE, is renowned for its large stone sculptures, particularly the colossal heads carved from basalt. These remarkable works of art, some weighing several tons, are considered iconic representations of the Olmec culture. The ability to organize labor and resources to carve, transport, and erect these massive stone sculptures indicates a high degree of social organization and artistry.

Additionally, the Olmec made significant architectural contributions, including their pyramid-like structures, but it is primarily their large stone sculptures that set them apart and are most often associated with their legacy. This emphasis on large-scale stonework is a defining feature of the Olmec civilization.