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Ecuador

Cojitambo

Inca and pre-Inca hilltop archaeological site

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

The Cojitambo archaeological site, located at an elevation of 3,020 meters near Azogues, Ecuador, presents a rich tapestry of pre-Inca and Inca history. Initially occupied by the Cañari people from 500 BCE, this site served both military and religious purposes. By the mid-15th century CE, the Incas, led by Pachacuti Inca Yupanqui, began their conquest of the region, integrating Cojitambo into their expanding empire. They constructed significant infrastructure, including part of the Inca royal road. The site features defensive and ceremonial structures indicative of its importance in both Cañari and Inca cultures. Additionally, it served as a quarry for andesite stone used in constructing the Inca's northern capital of Tomebamba. Cojitambo's archaeological significance lies in its role as a cultural and historical bridge between the Cañari and Inca civilizations.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Cojitambo

FileCojitambostageliketerras.jpg

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Defensive Structures

Hill Forts

Industrial and Craft Structures

Quarries

Religious and Ritual Structures

Ceremonial Platforms

Transportation and Communication Structures

Roads

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Ecuador
Source
Wikipedia