What appeared to be a simple construction project on a home in Carrillos de Poás, Alajuela, ended up revealing a piece of Costa Rica’s pre-Columbian history. Last Thursday, September 11, a resident of the community reported to authorities the discovery of strange objects on her land while work was being carried out to create an access and drainage system.
Immediate Archaeological Intervention
Five days later, on Tuesday, September 16, a specialized team from the Department of Anthropology and History arrived at the site to conduct a rescue excavation. The work was led by archaeologist Julio César Sánchez, accompanied by assistants Carol Barrantes and Carlos Castro, who applied archaeological techniques to document and preserve the find.
Pieces Over Two Millennia Old
The intervention allowed for the recovery of five ceramic pieces that, according to preliminary analysis, date between 300 BC and 300 AD. After ruling out the existence of additional archaeological remains in the area, the owner was authorized to continue with her construction work without further inconvenience.
The objects were transferred to the Department’s laboratories, where they will undergo a process of cleaning, conservation, and technical analysis to more precisely determine their cultural origin and historical value.
Heritage that Must Be Protected
This discovery highlights the importance of citizens immediately reporting these types of discoveries. Authorities emphasized that it is not just about rescuing the pieces, but also about preserving information about their context, which is essential for understanding the past and protecting the national archaeological heritage.
Broader Context
Costa Rica has been the scene of numerous archaeological discoveries in recent decades, from the Diquís stone spheres, recognized as a World Heritage Site, to funerary sites and ceramics distributed throughout different regions of the country. These discoveries reinforce the cultural wealth inherited from indigenous peoples and the need to foster greater public awareness about its protection.
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