Tlatilco

Tlatilco was a large pre-Columbian village in the Valley of Mexico situated near the modern-day town of the same name in the Mexican Federal District. It was one of the first chiefdom centers to arise in the Valley, flourishing on the western shore of Lake Texcoco during the Middle Pre-Classic period, between the years of 1200 BCE and 200 BCE. It gives its name to the "Tlatilco culture", which also includes the town of Tlapacoya, on the eastern shore of Lake Chalco, as well as the Coapexco site which lies east of the Amecameca municipality within Mexico State.

Tlatilco is noted in particular for its high quality pottery pieces, including many human figurines as well as certain pieces featuring Olmec iconography. These Olmec-style artifacts have led to speculation concerning the nature of Olmec influence on other Mesoamerican cultures, and the presence of them is what led famous Mexican artist and ethnographer Miguel Covarrubias to eventually formally excavate the site.

The name "Tlatilco" was possibly given by the Aztecs before the arrival of the Spanish. It comes from the Nahuatl language, and means "where things are hidden". A fitting name considering all the treasures and history hidden at the site.

Tlatilco reached its heyday during the period from 1000 to 700 BCE, during the Olmec horizon. The following Zacatenco phase (700-400 BCE) saw a cessation of the use of Olmec iconography and forms.