Tastil
Argentina

Tastil

Sandstone city with labyrinthine layout, plazas.

Location

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Historical Context

About

Tastil is a significant archaeological site located near Santa Rosa de Tastil, Argentina, known for its impressive sandstone construction without the use of mortar. The site, built by the Atacameño people, was a thriving town in the 15th century with over 2,000 inhabitants across 400 households. Its complex layout featured labyrinthine streets, catacombs, plazas, and a central square organized around a sacred stone, known as a wanka. Tastil's economy was based on quinoa, maize, and llama husbandry. Despite its prosperity, the town faced a siege from the Inca Empire, marking a significant historical event. Rediscovered in 1903, Tastil offers insights into pre-Inca civilizations in the Andean region and their urban planning and cultural practices.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

Gallery

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FileRuinas_Tastil.jpg
Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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Inca siege

15th century CE

15th century peak

15th century CE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Public and Civic Structures

Plazas
category

Burial and Funerary Structures

Catacombs
category

Religious and Ritual Structures

Holy Stones
category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Towns
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

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Reference

Details

Country

Argentina

Coordinates

-24.45° N, -65.96° E