The Zapotec civilization is an ancient Mesoamerican civilization that flourished in the Valley of Oaxaca in southern Mexico. The Zapotecs were one of the earliest civilizations to develop in Mesoamerica, and their culture flourished from around 500 BCE to 900 CE. The Zapotecs were a highly advanced society, and they made significant contributions to the development of Mesoamerican culture. They were particularly known for their architecture, art, and writing system. The Zapotec civilization eventually declined, but their culture continued to influence the development of Mesoamerican civilization for centuries to come.