The Maya civilization was one of the most advanced ancient cultures of Mesoamerica, flourishing from around 2000 BCE to the 16th century. Known for their incredible achievements in astronomy, mathematics, and architecture, the Maya developed a complex calendar system and one of the earliest known written scripts in the Americas. Their cities featured grand pyramids, intricate carvings, and advanced water systems. Despite lacking metal tools or the wheel, they built monumental cities like Tikal, Palenque, and Chichen Itza. The collapse of many major cities around 900 CE remains a mystery, but their culture still lives on through millions of modern Maya people in Mexico and Central America.