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Zaquencipa Archaeological Park (El Infiernito)

Discover El Infiernito: An ancient Muisca site near Villa de Leyva with phallic stone columns used for fertility rituals and astronomical observations.

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Explore the ancient Muisca civilization at Zaquencipa, also known as El Infiernito, near Villa de Leyva. This archaeological site features impressive stone monoliths used for ceremonial purposes by the Muisca people, offering a glimpse into pre-Columbian history and culture.

A brief summary to Parque arqueologico Zaquencipa (El Infiernito)

  • Tuesday 9 am-12 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-12 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-12 pm
  • Friday 9 am-12 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-12 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-12 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven ground while exploring the archaeological site.
  • Bring sunscreen and a hat, as the area can be quite sunny, and there is limited shade.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the Muisca culture and the El Infiernito site.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Villa de Leyva, the Parque Arqueológico Zaquencipa is approximately 8 km away. You can walk along the main road towards the park, enjoying the scenery of the Boyacá highlands. The walk will take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus from the terminal to Arcabuco and ask the driver to drop you off near El Infiernito. From there, it is a short walk to the park entrance.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Villa de Leyva. A taxi ride from the town center to Parque Arqueológico Zaquencipa typically takes around 15-20 minutes. The estimated cost is between 15,000 to 20,000 COP. Be sure to confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Parque arqueologico Zaquencipa (El Infiernito)

Parque Arqueológico Zaquencipa, or El Infiernito (little hell), is an intriguing pre-Columbian site located just 8 km from Villa de Leyva, Boyacá, Colombia. The site dates back roughly 2,200 years and features a collection of phallic-shaped stone columns, which led the Spanish conquistadors to name it 'El Infiernito'. However, these columns were not demonic symbols for the Muisca people; instead, they represented fertility, the sacredness of human sexuality, and the fertility of the fields. Archaeologists and anthropologists believe that Zaquencipa served as both an astronomical observatory and a place for fertility rituals. The arrangement of the megaliths allowed the Muisca to track the movement of the moon, determine the start of rainy and dry seasons, and create an ancestral calendar. The columns, averaging 1.8 meters in height and 40 centimeters in width, were carefully positioned to align with the sun's path. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the Muisca culture through interpretive signage. The park offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it a worthwhile destination for those interested in Colombia's pre-Columbian past.

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