After sheltering jeweled royals for centuries, the oldest known tomb in Mesoamerica–ancient Central America and Mexico, roughly speaking–has been uncovered, archaeologists announced Tuesday.

Apparently caught between two cultures, the 2,700-year-old pyramid in Chiapa de Corzo (map), Mexico, may help settle a debate as to when and how the mysterious Zoque civilization arose, according to excavation leader Bruce Bachand.