POST-CLASSIC PERIOD A.D. 900-A.D. 1524 rade and empire were the characteristics of the post-Classic era. During this period, Upper Central America was dominated by Mesoamerican populations who settled large zones and established ports of trade. Elites of mixed Maya and Nahuat descent continued rich artistic and ritual traditions. Mesoamerican trade penetrated Lower Central America, as well, where local peoples began to pay homage to Aztec gods. The arts, including a significant gold cult, flourished in Costa Rica, Panama, and Colombia.						Pre-Classic Classic Post-Classic