The 2006 discovery of the Cascajal Block dates to the San Lorenzo period and contains 28 unique characters that bear no resemblance to other Olmec glyphs, representing potential very early writing. A ceramic cylinder seal from San Andrés near La Venta (c. 650 BCE) displays speech scrolls from a bird followed by symbols interpreted as 'king, number three, lord.' Monument 13 at La Venta (650-450 BCE) shows additional glyphs. Scholars debate whether these constitute true writing systems, with some cautioning that more evidence is needed for confirmation.
Olmec Writing: Cascajal Block Contains 28 Characters, Cylinder Seal Shows Glyphs
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Key facts
- Cascajal Block discovered in 2006 at a small village, dates to San Lorenzo period
- Contains 28 unique characters, bearing no resemblance to other Olmec glyphs
- Ceramic cylinder seal from San Andrés near La Venta (c. 650 BCE) displays speech scrolls from a bird followed by symbols interpreted as 'king, number three, lord'
- Monument 13 (Ambassador Monument) at La Venta (650-450 BCE) displays additional glyphs
- Scholars debate whether these represent true writing
- Some caution more evidence is needed to confirm true writing system
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