Zapotec Civilization Timeline By Meganebaker 500 BCE San Jose Mogote becomes the capital of the Zapotec civilization. Period: 500 BCE to 900 The Height of The Zapotec Civilization The Zapotec Civilization flourishes in Mesoamerica. Period: 500 BCE to 450 BCE Monte Alban becomes the capital Monte Alban becomes the capital of the Zapotec in the Oaxaca Valley of Mexico. Period: 150 BCE to 150 The Zapotec capital of Monte Alban is further developed 900 The Zapotec abandon Monte Alban The Zapotec abandon Monte Alban and establish a new center at Mitla. 1450 The Aztecs establish a garrison at Mitla in the Oaxaca Valley.