Olmecs and the Civilizations of the Gulf of Mexico

A fascinating exhibition that lifts the veil on the mysterious earliest known civilization in Mesoamerica

For the first time in Canada, an opportunity to explore the Olmec civilization and its heritage. The exhibition Olmecs and the Civilizations of the Gulf of Mexico invites the public to delve into some 4,000 years of history, exchanges, and cultural traditions.

Remaining largely unknown until the second half of the 19th century, the Olmecs are now considered to be the founding people of the civilizations of Mesoamerica, the most well-known of which are the Mayas and the Aztecs. Ingenious and deeply connected to nature, the Olmecs left behind a significant legacy that is revealed in multiple artistic traditions, beliefs, and rites, as well as in their political and economic organizations.

An immersive and authentic exhibition transports visitors to the heart of the Gulf of Mexico, on a journey through time and across this civilization’s iconic sites, exploring its fascinating universe.

Discover the treasures of the Olmecs and its heritage

A colossal basalt stone head, jaguar-man statues, jade figures, stelae and sculptures dating back thousands of years… the exhibition features close to 300 masterpieces and symbolic objects from a dozen Mexican institutions, mainly from the collection of the Museo Nacional de Antropología, México. Among these pieces are certain treasures that have never been on public display! A rare and unique opportunity to discover them at Pointe-à-Callière!

This exhibition is produced by Pointe-à-Callière, in collaboration with the Secretaría de Cultura – Instituto Nacional de Antropología e Historia, México.