Book excerpt: This wide-ranging reference book covers almost 3000 years, offering enthralling insights into the art and architecture, myths and legends, and everyday life of Mesoamerica. Stories of sun-gods and blood sacrifice, of pyramids and temples, and of the fabulous treasuries filled with gold have fascinated many generations. The World Heritage sites of historic Mexico City and Tenochtitlan, Teotihuacan, Chichen Itza, Tikal and Monte Alban are examined in detail. This unrivalled volume is not only a perfect introduction to the history of these lost civilizations, but also a stunning visual record of a unique period that has helped to shape our world.