Peralta (Mesoamerican site)

and a multitude of terraced agricultural fields that supported the population. The region was initially settled around 100 AD, with the center reaching its apex between 300 and 650 AD prior to the population's reversion to nomadism.

Peralta was first studied in 1978 by a group of archaeological students searching for evidence of prehistoric cultures in the state. Excavation of the site began in 2002 by the Mexican National Institute of Anthropology and History. The archaeological site is dominated by two stepped pyramidal structures with a common, fully-enclosed plaza, along with an immense raised platform and additional enclosed plazas. Notably, finds of turquoise, copper bells, seashells, and jadeite in the nearby site of Plazuelas indicate an extensive trade network spanning from Guatemala to the Caribbean to New Mexico. The inhabitants have been identified as part of a unique culture labeled El Bajío. The specific ethnicity of the inhabitants is still under investigation.

Peralta was deemed by the villagers of San José to be enchanted by the spirits of its original inhabitants. At the southern-most extent of the archaeological site lies a mineral-rich boulder previously used as a bell by the local elders to call spiritual gatherings at the site.

Peralta is located in the municipality of Abasolo, Guanajuato, just outside the village of San Jose de Peralta. The site is reached via Mexico highway 90 south from Irapuato. Approximately 15.5 km south of the intersection with Mexico highway 45, take the Irapuato-Huanimaro route southeast (left). Follow the route for about 12.5 km, then turnoff southwest (right) to San Jose de Peralta. Cross the bridge and turn right, and then follow the gravel road out of the village northwest about 1 km. The site is on the left.

References

*Moreno, G., et al, "Zonas Archaeológicas en Guanajuato", 2006, Instituto Estatal de la Cultura, Guanajuato, Mexico

External links

* [http://peralta.com.mx/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=13&Itemid=39 "Primeros Pobladores de Peralta", Municipio de San Jose de Peralta, 2008]