The Maya civilization flourished in Mesoamerica from around 2600 BC to AD 900. They developed advanced architectures, mathematics, astronomy and calendars. Maya cities had elaborate ceremonial buildings and pyramids built without metal tools. They were also skilled farmers and traders. Maya society was stratified, with kings and priests ruling over merchants, artisans, commoners and slaves. Maya cities had planned layouts centered around large plazas and ball courts for ritual games. Notable Maya sites include Tikal and Palenque, with grand palaces and temples decorated with sculptures and murals. Architecture had both practical and symbolic religious meanings represented through numerological and astronomical elements of structures.