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Museum of High Altitude Archaeology: Unveiling Inca Mysteries

Discover the haunting beauty and rich history of the Inca civilization at the Museum of High Altitude Archaeology in Salta, Argentina.

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The Museum of High Altitude Archaeology (MAAM) in Salta, Argentina, safeguards and exhibits artifacts from Inca Capacocha child sacrifice ceremonies in the Andes. The centerpiece is the remarkably preserved Children of Llullaillaco, discovered in 1999 on the Llullaillaco volcano, offering a poignant glimpse into Inca beliefs and practices.

A brief summary to Museum of High Altitude Archaeology

  • Tuesday 11 am-6:30 pm
  • Wednesday 11 am-6:30 pm
  • Thursday 11 am-6:30 pm
  • Friday 11 am-6:30 pm
  • Saturday 11 am-6:30 pm
  • Sunday 11 am-6:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds and have a more intimate experience.
  • Check the museum's schedule for guided tours or special exhibitions to enhance your visit.
  • Photography is restricted inside the museum to protect the artifacts.
  • Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the museum's collections and exhibits.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Museum of High Altitude Archaeology is centrally located in Salta, just a short walk from Plaza 9 de Julio. From the Plaza, head east on Bartolomé Mitre street. The museum is located at Bartolomé Mitre 77. The walk is easy and takes about 5 minutes.

  • Public Transport

    Many local buses travel to the city center of Salta. Ask the driver for the nearest stop to Plaza 9 de Julio. From there, walk east on Bartolomé Mitre street to reach the museum. Bus fares typically range from 30 to 50 ARS.

  • Taxi/Ride-Sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber (if available) are readily accessible in Salta. Provide the driver with the address: Bartolomé Mitre 77, A4400 Salta. The fare will vary depending on your starting point, but a short trip within the city center should cost between 200 and 500 ARS.

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Discover more about Museum of High Altitude Archaeology

The Museum of High Altitude Archaeology (Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña – MAAM) in Salta, Argentina, offers a captivating journey into the world of the Inca civilization and their practices in the high Andes. Opened in 2004, the museum's primary focus is the preservation, research, and exhibition of artifacts related to the Capacocha ritual, particularly the incredibly well-preserved mummies of the Children of Llullaillaco. These children were discovered in 1999 atop the Llullaillaco volcano at an altitude of 6,739 meters (22,110 feet). The museum is housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century neo-Gothic building. The architecture itself provides a unique atmosphere, blending historical charm with modern museum design. Inside, visitors encounter a carefully curated collection of artifacts that contextualize the Capacocha ritual and Inca life. The highlight of the MAAM is undoubtedly the Children of Llullaillaco. These mummies, preserved by the extreme cold and dry conditions of the high altitude, offer an unparalleled glimpse into the past. The museum employs state-of-the-art cryopreservation technology to maintain the mummies in conditions as close as possible to their discovery. Only one mummy is displayed at a time to ensure its long-term preservation. Beyond the mummies, the MAAM showcases a range of Inca artifacts, including textiles, pottery, and ceremonial objects. These items provide insights into Inca religious beliefs, social structures, and daily life. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that explore various aspects of Andean archaeology and culture. The MAAM is more than just a museum; it's a research center dedicated to the study of Andean archaeology. It features research laboratories, educational programs, and a library. A café within the museum offers a taste of traditional Inca cuisine.

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