The Olmec and Mayan civilizations were both Mesoamerican civilizations that thrived in what is now present-day Mexico. Both civilizations shared similar religious beliefs and practices, including the worship of nature gods and human sacrifice. However, there were also significant differences between the two civilizations. The Mayans developed a more advanced system of writing and mathematics, and their cities were highly organized with complex social and political structures. In contrast, the Olmec civilization is known for its monumental stone heads and the establishment of the first written language in Mesoamerica. Furthermore, the Olmec civilization predates the Mayan civilization, which flourished many centuries later.
