Final answer:
The ancient city in question was constructed by the Maya civilization, notable for their remarkable architectural and mathematical achievements during their flourishing period in Mesoamerica.
Step-by-step explanation:
The ancient city referenced in the student's question was built by the Maya civilization. The Maya were a Mesoamerican culture known for their significant architectural and mathematical contributions, flourishing in parts of what is now Mexico, Belize, Honduras, and Guatemala.
During their peak, between 2000 BCE to 900 CE, they developed a complex calendar and written language, and their societies were centered around city-states such as Copan, Tikal, and Chichen Itza. These city-states featured impressive structures like temples, pyramids, and astronomical observatories.
Comparing the major civilizations of the Americas, the Aztecs, for example, emerged later in the Valley of Mexico, with their large cities Tenochtitlán and Texcoco. In contrast, the Incas ruled over the Andean regions with their own distinctive architecture, roadway networks, and administrative systems.
Unlike these empires, the Native peoples of North America, including the Anasazi who built sophisticated cliff dwellings, did not form large empires but rather consisted of smaller societies with intricate pottery, architecture, and religious traditions.