Sapauir Archaeological Monument
arica, Arica y Parinacota region, Chile
Description:
The Zapaouira Archaeological Monument is located in northern Chile in the Arica y Parinacota region, east of the major city of Arica. The construction of this structure is attributed to the Incas, this is the oldest complex in which traces of burials, as well as sacred places, are found. In 1983, the complex, along with another archaeological site – Copacilla, was declared a national monument.
For a long time, archaeological excavations have been carried out here, many of the items found have been transferred to the historical museums of Chile. The unique complex of Zapauira consists of a number of adjacent rectangular buildings with small doors. Presumably, these were ancient burial places or places of worship. 150 meters from the buildings, there are two rows of tombs made of clay and stone. Every year, the monument is visited by thousands of tourists to get acquainted with the ancient culture of the Incas.