Recent archaeological discoveries made by accident in Mexico are shedding light on the country’s pre-Hispanic era. Ancient origins reported.
Last month, workers at a site in Janitzio on Mexico’s Lake Pátzcuaro unearthed a traditional boat known as a tepari. It is believed that this ship sank while transporting a load of firewood from Erongaricuaro to Janitzio.
CINAH Michoacán
That discovery led to further dredging at the site, which unearthed a number of other artifacts that predated the Spanish presence in Mexico. The National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) is leading the effort along with the Mexican government’s Ministry of Culture.
Many human remains were discovered at the site. A number of human bones collected by officials were photographed and neatly placed next to each other in a cardboard box.
CINAH Michoacan
A lot of stone and ceramic objects were also discovered. Officials suspect that these objects were likely thrown into Lake Pátzcuaro as a spiritual offering, providing an unprecedented glimpse into the religious practices of Pátzcuaro’s ancient community.
CINAH Michoacan
A separate tapari was also found at the site, and officials are working to preserve it. The INAH, as well as the city of Janitzio and Mexico’s Ministry of Culture, hope to establish a community museum to showcase the groundbreaking discoveries, and to remind the small island community of their cultural origins.
Local residents who come across anything they believe may be an important archaeological discovery are urged to immediately notify INAH’s Michoacán Center so that proper conservation methods can be implemented.
