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Cihuatán
13.9810° N, -89.1650° E
About
Cihuatán is a major pre-Columbian archaeological site in central El Salvador. It was a very large city located in the extreme south of the Mesoamerican cultural area, and has been dated to the Early Postclassic period of Mesoamerican chronology (c. 950–1200 AD). Archaeological investigation of the site was undertaken in the mid to late 1970s by Karen Olsen Bruhns of San Francisco State University in conjunction with El Salvador's Administración de Patrimonio Cultural (Cultural Heritage Administration). By 1980, 63 hectares (6,800,000 sq ft) of the city had been mapped by the archaeological project, covering an area that included over 900 structures.
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's history
Destruction by fire
Archaeological investigations begin
mid–late 1970s
Founding of Cihuatán
8th–9th century AD
Radiocarbon evidence for western core
8th–early 9th century AD
Primary occupation (Early Postclassic)
c. 950–1200 AD
Western Ceremonial Centre cleared
1978
Site mapping completed (reported extent)
by 1980
Archaeological Features
Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Storage Structures
Public and Civic Structures
Burial and Funerary Structures
Industrial and Craft Structures
Religious and Ritual Structures
Artistic and Decorative Features
Agricultural and Land Use Features
Domestic and Habitation Structures
Food Production and Processing Features
Frequently Asked Questions
Plan Your Visit
Tours, travel arrangements, and practical information
Recommended Tours
Combo Tour: Archeology in Cihuatan + Suchitoto Best Preserved Colonial Town.
2 Different Sightseeing in 1 Day Tour - Volcanoes Park and Two Mayan Sites.
San Salvador Custom Walking Tour With A Guide (Private Tour)
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