ZONA ARQUEOLOGICA EL OCOTE
Area with rock paintings, remains of structures on the hill, artificial terraces on its slopes and tombs with offerings
You will have to ask the locals for directions to get to the site. The archaeological zone, identified in 1976, includes 60 ha distributed between the slopes of the cerro Los Tecuanes and the charming valley of La Troja below. The first surveys carried out in the early 2000s only concerned the presence of rock paintings, but researchers soon found remains of ceramics and human and animal bones; little by little traces of a strong human presence in this site of sedentary farmers were uncovered. The remains of two structures on the top of the rocky hill and numerous artificial terraces on its slopes were first identified. Finally, a dozen tombs containing offerings (shells, turquoise, etc.) have been uncovered, not to mention the many residential units around. The only part of the site that is accessible today is the rock paintings, which are now difficult to see, but it doesn't matter, because the walk is worth the effort. To get there, you will first pass a field with a sign warning you not to enter: follow the directions to the letter and continue straight ahead where you will come across a metal barrier. The path built to admire the rock paintings starts on your right and climbs towards the rock walls. As you walk along them, you'll get some great views of the valley below.