Various large-scale replicas of Pre-Columbian sculpture were part of the initial development phase of the Botanical Gardens. These are located in the Rainforest Conservatory – now featured as a Butterfly Garden and Parrot Haven. These sculptures were expertly and accurately done and artfully placed, adding a touch of ancient New World culture as well as acting as appropriate features. Enjoy!

GIANT OLMEC HEAD: a pre-Columbian archaeological-replica (Mexican circa 1000 BC).
The Olmec culture created rubber and the ball-game. Perhaps this is “Xook” (pronounced Shook) an Olmec or Mayan deity associated with Time and Counting.
Location: in the Butterfly Garden/Rain Forest Conservatory, a waterfall at either side.

SMALLER OLMEC HEAD: a pre-Columbian archaeological-replica (Mexican circa 1000 BC).
Location: in the Rain Forest Conservatory/Butterfly Garden, by the stairs going down to the lawn exit.

MAYAN STELE 1: a pre-Columbian archaeological-replica (Meso-American, Mexican, classic period Mayan culture circa 250 – 900 AD). The several faces of the stele depict personages – kings and gods together with Mayan glyphs.
Location: in the Rain Forest Conservatory/Butterfly Garden, on the trail to see the parrots.

MAYAN STELE 2: a pre-Columbian archaeological-replica (Meso-American, Mexican, classic period Mayan culture circa 250 – 900 AD). The surface of the stele depict personages – kings and gods together with Mayan glyphs.
Location: in the Rain Forest Conservatory/Butterfly Garden, on the trail to see the parrots.

MONKEYS: pre-Columbian archaeological-replica (Meso-American, Mexican, classic period Mayan culture circa 250 – 900 AD). Engraved and Relief depictions of playful monkeys.
Location: in the Rain Forest Conservatory/Butterfly Garden, on the walls by the Olmec heads, viewed from the stairs going down to the lawn exit.