3D Tour: Olmec Head, La Venta Monument 1
Olmec Head: La Venta Monument 1
Location: Parque-Museo La Venta, Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico
Size: 2.41 metres (7.9 ft) high by 2.08 metres (6.8 ft) wide by 1.95 metres (6.4 ft) deep
Weight: 24 tons
Age: Middle Preclassic (900–400 BCE)
Originally Found: La Venta, Tabasco, Mexico
Material: Basalt
La Venta Monument 1, also known as “The Great Head,” is a must-see. Its massive size, intricate headdress, and commanding expression make it one of the most striking examples of Olmec artistry. Now housed at Parque-Museo La Venta in Villahermosa, this colossal head stands as a lasting symbol of Mesoamerica’s earliest civilization.
“The Great Head”
La Venta Monument 1 isn’t just a giant sculpture—it’s a glimpse into the power and identity of an ancient Olmec leader. The detailed headdress and lifelike features suggest it represents a real individual, likely a ruler whose influence shaped early Mesoamerican society. Its sheer size and craftsmanship reflect the importance of elite figures in Olmec culture, where monumental art was used to project authority.
There is a full-scale replica of La Venta Monument 1 at the La Venta archaeological site for visitors to experience the original colossal head in its historical context. The actual artifact is in La Venta Park, Villahermosa.
La Venta Monument 1, Olmec Head 3D Scan
Explore the 3D model in detail using this interactive viewer—rotate, zoom, and pan to view from every angle:
Preserved for the Future
Originally discovered at the Olmec site of La Venta, this colossal head was relocated to Parque-Museo La Venta in Villahermosa to protect it from weathering and looting. Today, it remains one of the museum’s most impressive artifacts, standing alongside other Olmec sculptures that once formed part of the ancient city’s ceremonial landscape. The move ensures that future generations can appreciate this remarkable piece of history up close.
Engineering an Ancient Marvel
Carving and transporting a basalt boulder of this scale was no easy feat. The Olmecs sourced the stone from the distant Tuxtla Mountains, over 80 kilometers (50 miles) away, and moved it across rivers and dense jungle. How they accomplished this remains a mystery, but it speaks to their advanced engineering skills and the effort invested in honoring their rulers. This wasn’t just a sculpture—it was a statement of power and innovation.
Why You Should Visit
You have to stand before it to truly appreciate its size, presence, and intricate details. The massive stone face, carved over 2,500 years ago, carries an undeniable sense of history and power. Seeing it up close at La Venta Park in Villahermosa gives you a rare chance to connect with one of the earliest civilizations of Mesoamerica and witness firsthand the artistry that continues to captivate archaeologists and visitors alike.
Let us know what you think about this Olmec head. Have you seen it in person or want to see it? Let us know in the comments below.
Otherwise, check out the other Olmec 3D Scans
Part of the MEC Luke Caverns Olmec Tour