Ruins of Quilmes facts for kids
The Ruins of Quilmes are an amazing ancient place in the Calchaquí Valleys of Tucumán Province, Argentina. This site was once the biggest settlement in Argentina before Christopher Columbus arrived. It covered a huge area, about 30 hectares, which is like 30 football fields!
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What Are the Quilmes Ruins?
The Ruins of Quilmes are what's left of a very old city. It was built by the Quilmes people around 850 AD. Imagine living in a city that's over 1,100 years old! At its busiest time, about 5,000 people called this place home.
Who Were the Quilmes People?
The Quilmes people were a group of native people who lived in this area for many centuries. They were very skilled builders. They created homes, walls, and terraces on the side of a mountain. These structures helped them live and farm in the tough mountain environment.
When Were the Ruins Discovered?
The Ruins of Quilmes were first found in 1888 by a person named Samuel Alejandro Lafone Quevedo. Later, in 1897, an archaeologist named Juan Bautista Ambrosetti began to study the site. Archaeologists are like history detectives. They dig up and study old things to learn about people who lived long ago.
Exploring the Ancient City
When you visit the Ruins of Quilmes today, you can see the remains of many buildings. There are stone walls that once formed houses and storage areas. You can also see parts of the ancient city's defenses. The Quilmes people built strong walls to protect their homes.
Life in the Ancient City
Life in the Quilmes city was likely busy. People farmed on terraces built into the hillsides. They also collected water and stored food. The city was designed to be self-sufficient, meaning they could get most of what they needed right there.
Why Are the Ruins Important?
The Ruins of Quilmes are very important for understanding Argentina's history. They show us how advanced the native people were before Europeans arrived. Studying these ruins helps us learn about their culture, their building skills, and how they lived their daily lives. It's like a giant history book made of stone!
