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Real Alto
-2.3653° N, -80.6536° E
About
Real Alto is an archaeological site located in the Chanduy Valley of Ecuador, nestled between the cities of Guayaquil and Salinas. Occupied from approximately 6000 to 3800 BCE, this site serves as a critical link between the Las Vegas and Valdivia cultures, filling a significant chronological gap in local prehistory. By around 2500 BCE, during the Valdivia culture phase, Real Alto was a burgeoning town with a population of around 1,250 people. It featured distinctive architectural elements such as two plazas and two ceremonial mounds, indicating a complex social and ritual life. The site also provides insight into early agricultural practices, with evidence of crops like Calathea allouia. Real Alto is pivotal in understanding the transition and cultural developments in this region of South America.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Initial Settlement
6000 BCE
Valdivia Culture Phase
2500 BCE
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Public and Civic Structures
Religious and Ritual Structures
Agricultural and Land Use Features
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
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