Nearly 300 Ancient Artifacts Discovered on Colombian Coffee Farm
Archaeologists in Colombia have uncovered 283 pre-Columbian artifacts on a coffee farm in Jericó, a town in the country’s Antioquia region. The artifacts, dating back more than 1,800 years (around 214 AD), include pottery fragments, stone tools, and charcoal remains.
Experts believe the artifacts are linked to ancient rituals, as they were found in rock shelters historically used as sacred sites for offerings to deities associated with rain and water. The discovery provides new insights into the region’s early inhabitants and their spiritual practices.
Major pre-columbian archaeological discovery in Jerico, Colombia
The discovery was made by a young coffee grower from the Mirantonio farm, located in the La Soledad district. While exploring the land for a coffee nursery, he stumbled upon the artifacts. Upon finding them, he contacted archaeologist Pablo Aristizábal, who verified the significance of the discovery and led the formal excavations.
This is not the first archaeological discovery in the area. For several years, the region has been the subject of previous investigations. In places such as Cerro Tusa and Titiribí, petroglyphs and other remnants have been found, indicating the presence of ancient pre-columbian cultures in the region. However, the discovery at the Mirantonio farm is particularly significant due to the quantity and excellent state of preservation of the artifacts, as well as their connection to ceremonial rituals dating back more than 1,800 years.
The artifacts found on the coffee farm are under the protection of the Colombian Institute of Anthropology and History (ICANH), which is responsible for their analysis, conservation, and registration as part of the nation’s cultural heritage. Some of these pieces may be displayed in local museums, such as the MAJA Museum in Jerico, so the public can view and appreciate their historical value.
Other important discoveries in Antioquia
Several significant archaeological discoveries in the Antioquia department have highlighted the rich pre-Columbian and colonial history of the area. Some of the most relevant include:
Discoveries along the 4G roads in southwestern Antioquia: During the construction of these roads, more than 13,500 archaeological fragments were recovered, including ceramics, stone tools, and petroglyphs. In municipalities like Amaga and Titiribi, human burials and artifacts dating back more than 1,700 years were found.
Discoveries in Medellin: In 2014, during infrastructure work in the city center, remnants of colonial bridges dating to 1860 were found, along with pre-Hispanic pottery that could be over 2,300 years old.
Explorations at Cerro Tusa: This site, considered sacred by indigenous cultures, has revealed petroglyphs and other traces suggesting its ceremonial use.