Written in GUANAJUATO he
Pénjamo, Guanajuato.- In the southern foothills of the Sierra de Pénjamo, Guanajuato, lies an ancient treasure that whispers stories of ancient times: the Plazuelas Archaeological Zone. This enigmatic site, located in the community of San Juan El Alto Plazuelas, about 12 kilometers west of the city of Pénjamo, invites travelers to immerse themselves in the depths of a civilization that flourished between 600 and 900 AD.
How to get there:
For those adventurers who leave from Pénjamo, the path to Plazuelas is taken by taking federal highway 90 in the direction of La Piedad, Michoacán. After traveling approximately 12 kilometers, near the CICABA company (Salvi), a discreet sign indicates the deviation towards San Juan El Alto Plazuelas. From there, a winding municipal road leads directly to the archaeological site, where nature and history converge in harmony.
Schedules and rates:
The portal to this ancient past opens its doors from Tuesday to Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The last tour begins at 5:00 p.m., giving visitors ample time to explore and marvel. General admission costs $39 pesos for adults and $12 pesos for children over 5 years old. It is recommended that you check current rates prior to visiting as they may be subject to change.
Main attractions:
Upon entering Plazuelas, the visitor is greeted by an architectural complex that reflects the mastery and ingenuity of its ancient inhabitants. Among the most notable elements are:
• Blocked Houses Complex: This complex includes four buildings, a palace and a small altar, all bordered by a thick wall with a bench inside. Various entrances allow entry, the main one being on the west side, which is reached via a wide road.
• Ball game: A court oriented on the east-west axis, used for ceremonial and sports practices, reflecting the importance of this ritual in the daily life of the community.
• Petrogravures: More than a thousand stones carved with various symbols are scattered around the area, including models that represent the architectural complex, offering a unique vision of the worldview and art of the time.
• Site museum: Before starting the tour of the ruins, the museum exhibits pieces found during excavations, such as sculptures, clay vessels and obsidian tools, providing a window to the past and contextualizing the importance of the place.
History:
The occupation of Plazuelas occurred between the years 600 and 900 AD, a period in which the territory of the current state of Guanajuato reached its highest population density. The inhabitants of Plazuelas came from different ethnicities, which is reflected in the cultural and architectural diversity of the site. After approximately 300 years of occupation, the city was destroyed, burned and later abandoned.
Recommendations for visitors:
To fully enjoy the experience, it is advisable to wear comfortable clothing and shoes, a cap or hat, and sunscreen, due to sun exposure during the tour. It is important to stay on the marked routes and not collect objects within the site, thus contributing to the conservation of the archaeological heritage.
The Plazuelas Archaeological Zone not only offers a window to the pre-Hispanic past of the region, but also provides a unique experience where history and nature intertwine, inviting each visitor to take part in a journey through time, exploring the remains. of a civilization that, although disappeared, still resonates in the stones and landscapes of this enigmatic place.
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