From what time period did the Mayan civilization exist, noted for its temples and pyramids?

The Mayan civilization is recognized for its remarkable achievements in architecture, mathematics, astronomy, and its unique hieroglyphic writing system. The period during which the Mayan civilization thrived is typically dated from around 1500 B.C. to 900 A.D. This stretches over a significant timeframe that includes the Preclassic period, when early Mayan communities began to develop, followed by the Classic period, which is noted for the height of Mayan culture, including the construction of large city-states with impressive temples and pyramids.

The timeframe indicated includes both the earliest developments of the civilization and the peak of its cultural achievements, which correlates with archaeological findings showing extensive urbanization and monumental architecture. The era after 900 A.D., known as the Postclassic period, shows a decline in some regions, although the civilization continued to exist in various forms until the arrival of Europeans. Thus, identifying the Mayan civilization's existence from 1500 B.C. to 900 A.D. aligns well with historical evidence documenting their advanced society and architectural feats.