Archaeology at the Lalo Loor Reserve

The coastal lowlands between Pedernales and Jama were home to the Jama-Coaque cultures who settled the region beginning more than 2300 years ago.  The ancestors of these rich cultures are believed to be related to the Nazca culture of northern Peru. The Jama-Coaque were highly advanced technologically, being skilled in pottery, sculpture, metallurgy and fishing.

Remnants of this once industrious culture can be seen in burial sites and ruins of settlements throughout the region. While some of these sites sadly have been looted by grave robbers, many have been protected, excavated and restored by professional archaeologists, and uncovered artifacts donated to the municipality.

Several archeological sites are open to visitors, including the remains of a ceremonial pyramid located near the town of Jama, south of the reserve. Many artifacts from the region soon will be on display in the municipal museum of Jama, now under construction.

Mr. Lalo Loor, the reserve's owner, has a personal interest in the region's archaeology and has created a "virtual museum" presentation, combining information on the region with images of the local landscape and artifacts housed in local collections.  To view the this presentation in English or Spanish, click on the icons below and the presentation will launch in Powerpoint.

Virtual Museum - English (5 Mb)	Museo Virtual - Español (5 Mb)

 

Information about the Jama-Coaque cultures, along with exhibits of selected artifacts, will be on display in the Lalo Loor reserve's new education center, scheduled for construction in 2007.