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Guayabo National Monument
By admin | February 25, 2008
The Guayabo National Monument archeological site represents one of the highest degrees of socio-cultural development achieved by the country’s pre-Hispanic societies. Declared a National Monument in August 1973 for being the largest and most important archeological site discovered up to that time, Guayabo was occupied through four cultural phases from 1000 B.C. to 1550 A.D. Based on the type of constructions—aqueducts, roads, retaining walls or bridges—and the area, it is estimated that between 1,200 and 1,600 people inhabited the site.
The architectural complexity and extraordinary artistic design of the features and artifacts found among the ruins suggest that the site was home to individuals of high social, political, economic and religious standing. The site is located 19 kilometers northwest of Turrialba; however, it may also be accessed via Santa Cruz de Turrialba by all-terrain vehicle. Visitor services include information, a park ranger station, trails, restrooms, drinking water, signage and several natural viewpoints.
Topics: Central Valley, National Parks |