The Olmec colossal heads are massive stone sculptures carved from basalt, depicting human faces with distinct features like fleshy cheeks and flat noses. These heads, dating back to at least 900 BCE, are iconic symbols of the ancient Olmec civilization in Mesoamerica. h/t: vintag.esThe first recorded discovery occurred in 1862 at Tres Zapotes, but it wasn’t until Matthew Stirling’s excavation in 1938 that they gained widespread attention. His work led to deeper archaeological exploration of Olmec culture and the unearthing of more colossal heads. Seventeen confirmed heads have been found across four major sites: San Lorenzo, La Venta, Tres Zapotes, and La Cobata.