Paccha desde la Arqueología: un pasado con leves registros, el caso del cerro Guagualzhumi

Abstract

This investigation is oriented toward the archaeological analysis of Guagualzhumi hill, located in the Paccha parish, city of Cuenca, Azuay province. From this site there are only register of pedestrian routes and general descriptions of aspects such as flora and fauna. In some of these reports there are photographic registers that show the existence of material evidence that speaks of possible pre-Hispanic settlements, however, there is no specific analysis or detailed register of them. In this context, an archaeological survey has been carried out in the area that includes the Guagualzhumi hill (with the Quituiña lagoon) and a lower elevation adjacent to it, known as “El Calvario”, in order to determine areas with concentration of cultural material. To carry out this work, the archaeological method has been used mainly, showing phases such as prospecting, collection and analysis of material evidence. Following this logic, by conducting field work in the aforementioned sites, a considerable amount of ceramic remains has been obtained. A percentage of these, the most relevant, have been characterized individually, this analysis has provided different data, evidencing the existence of archaeological wealth in the area. In addition, the ethnographic method has been applied, which has made it possible to collect information about the life style in the past and the present of some inhabitants of the area, as well as the oral tradition linked to myths about the Guagualzhumi hill and the Quituiña lagoon. Additionally, relevant data were obtained on the modernization process of the area (placement of modern elements such as antennas and water pumps). In general, some areas with ceramic material evidence were identified, with a lower concentration on the lower part and with a high concentration on the upper part. Through analysis, these fragments were referred to the Cashaloma, Tacalshapa and Narrío periods. A photographic register of sites with lithic evidence (walls) is also left, the information of which can be expanded in future research