La Mojarra Archaeological Site
Pre-Columbian archaeological site in Veracruz
La Mojarra at a Glance#
About La Mojarra#
La Mojarra is an archaeological locality in Veracruz, Mexico, best known for stone monuments that preserve Epi-Olmec-style inscriptions and iconography dating to the early centuries of the Common Era.
The principal interest at the site is carved stelae and related archaeological material that provide information about local political and writing traditions in the Epi-Olmec period. Public access at many such provincial sites is limited and significant finds are often held in museums.
Monuments from La Mojarra are attributed to the regional Epi-Olmec cultural horizon; carved stelae from the area have been important for study of early Mesoamerican writing and chronology. The site’s monuments date to roughly the 2nd century CE.
La Mojarra lies in Veracruz state, in the Gulf coastal region of Mexico, within the broader Papaloapan river basin.
- Archaeological significance: The site is important for its carved monuments that carry Epi-Olmec script and iconography from the early centuries CE.
What to See#
- La Mojarra Stela: A carved stone monument bearing an Epi-Olmec-style inscription and iconography dating to the 2nd century CE, notable for its early Mesoamerican writing and imagery.
How to Get to La Mojarra#
La Mojarra is in Veracruz state. Access is typically by road from nearby cities such as Veracruz or Córdoba; local roads can be rural and poorly signed. Hiring a local driver or guide familiar with archaeological sites in Veracruz is recommended.
Tips for Visiting La Mojarra#
- If visiting the archaeological site, hire a specialist guide - the reliefs and inscriptions reward careful explanation.
- Bring sun protection: Veracruz's coast and lowlands can be hot and bright.
- Check local museum opening times if combining the site with museum collections.
Best Time to Visit La Mojarra#
Best during the dry season to avoid muddy access roads and high humidity.
Weather & Climate near La Mojarra#
La Mojarra's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with hot summers (peaking in May) and warm winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 18°C to 34°C. Abundant rainfall (1487 mm/year), wettest in September with a pronounced dry season.
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Excellent | 18° - 26° | 22° | 35 mm | partly cloudy | 86% | 3.6 m/s | 1.2 high | 11.0h |
| February | Ideal | 18° - 27° | 22° | 28 mm | partly cloudy | 84% | 3.7 m/s | 1.5 high | 11.4h |
| March | Ideal | 19° - 30° | 25° | 28 mm | some cloud | 76% | 3.7 m/s | 1.9 very high | 11.9h |
| April | Excellent | 21° - 32° | 27° | 24 mm | some cloud | 68% | 3.6 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 12.4h |
| May | Very Good | 23° - 34° | 31° | 50 mm | partly cloudy | 67% | 3.2 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 12.9h |
| June | Good | 23° - 33° | 32° | 184 mm | partly cloudy | 77% | 3.0 m/s | 2.2 extreme | 13.1h |
| July | Good | 23° - 32° | 31° | 275 mm | partly cloudy | 83% | 3.0 m/s | 2.2 extreme | 13.0h |
| August | Good | 23° - 32° | 31° | 227 mm | partly cloudy | 85% | 2.8 m/s | 2.1 extreme | 12.6h |
| September | Acceptable | 23° - 31° | 31° | 296 mm | overcast | 86% | 3.0 m/s | 1.9 very high | 12.1h |
| October | Very Good | 22° - 30° | 26° | 191 mm | partly cloudy | 86% | 3.4 m/s | 1.6 very high | 11.6h |
| November | Very Good | 20° - 29° | 24° | 96 mm | partly cloudy | 85% | 3.6 m/s | 1.3 high | 11.2h |
| December | Excellent | 18° - 27° | 23° | 53 mm | partly cloudy | 86% | 3.6 m/s | 1.1 high | 10.9h |