The empire that flourished in Mesoamerica, known for its pyramids and calendar systems, was the Maya civilization. Existing from about 2000 BCE to the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, the Maya had a sophisticated society characterized by impressive urban centers, architectural marvels, and advancements in mathematics, astronomy, and writing. Notable cities such as Tikal, Palenque, and Copán featured grand pyramids used for religious purposes and as tombs for royalty. The Maya calendar system was highly intricate, including a 260-day ritual calendar and a 365-day solar calendar. Their cultural contributions and architectural achievements greatly influenced the surrounding regions and continue to be studied today.