MUSEO ARQUEOLÓGICO DE MASCOTA
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Unique museum that contains archaeological pieces of a mysterious tribe, called civilization of the swamp in Mascota
Opened in 2011, this museum is unique in that it contains archaeological pieces from a mysterious tribe known as the "swamp civilization"(pantano). It is known only from a cemetery where its members were found buried with their most cherished objects: terracotta pots (including water baths) and, above all, statuettes representing scenes of daily life, as if they were photographic souvenirs. Related to the vast group of Western cultures, but predating them, little is known about this tribe that would have lived some 2,800 years ago. Probably nomadic or semi-nomadic, all that is known is that they maintained contacts to trade with distant peoples because of the presence of Central American jade among the objects found. A small pot containing coca remains suggests indirect contacts with civilizations in the Andes, where this plant originated. There is also a room dedicated to the petroglyph sites in the area, which were made after the year 1000 by groups culturally related to the Huichols. In total, there are nearly 600 pieces to discover in this museum.
One finds in the zone nearly 2 000 petroglyphs; three sites, which concentrate some examples, can be visited: El Refugio, La Mesa del Durazno and the Cañon de Ocotillo. They are more or less close to the village, so it is best to go with a local guide.
