Tierradentro National Archaeological Park

Tierradentro National Archaeological Park

Tierradentro National Archaeological Park is one of Colombia’s most renowned archaeological sites, featuring numerous ancient burial mound complexes. The park includes many large anthropomorphic statues and tombs dating from the 6th to the 10th century. These massive underground chambers are decorated with patterns inspired by the interior décor of households from the same period. They all illustrate the prosperity and advanced civilization of early Latin American societies that once inhabited the northern Andes.

The underground burial chambers in Tierradentro National Archaeological Park vary in depth, ranging from shallow graves to those as deep as 20 feet. The tombs are decorated with a wealth of geometric patterns, painted in red and black pigments on white backgrounds. Some tomb walls feature slender animal figures, while the columns supporting the ceiling are often carved with triangles, faces resembling Nordic features, and deeply set eyes.

A large number of statues similar in style to those found at the San Agustín Archaeological Site have also been unearthed in Tierradentro National Archaeological Park. The park also houses a museum that displays excavated pottery and other artifacts reflecting the civilization of the time, as well as some replicas of ancient utensils.

National Archaeological Park of Tierradentro

Must-visit reason: One of Colombia’s most famous archaeological sites

Continent where the attraction is located: South America【South America】

Country/region where the attraction is located: Colombia[Colombia]

Province/state where the attraction is located: Cauca Department [Cauca Department]