Tastil facts for kids
Tastil is an ancient archaeological site located near Santa Rosa de Tastil in Salta Province, Argentina. It's a fascinating place where you can explore the remains of an old city built long ago by the Atacameño people.
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What Was Tastil?
Tastil was a busy and important town that thrived around the 15th century. It was home to about 400 families, with more than 2,000 people living there. The people of Tastil, sometimes called Tastileños, built their homes and community using sandstone rocks. What's amazing is that they built everything without using any mortar to hold the stones together!
Life in Ancient Tastil
The people of Tastil were very clever. They grew their own food, like quinoa and maize (corn). They also raised llamas, which were important for their wool, meat, and for carrying goods.
The town itself was like a maze, with many paths and buildings. It had special areas like catacombs, which are underground burial places, and open spaces called plazas. The main square of Tastil had a special sacred stone called a wanka. This stone was likely very important to their beliefs and ceremonies.
The End of Tastil
Tastil grew and prospered until the Inca Empire began to expand. The Incas were a powerful group who conquered many lands. They eventually laid siege to Tastil, which means they surrounded the city and tried to take control. This event led to the decline of Tastil.
Discovering Tastil Today
The ruins of Tastil were hidden for a long time. A Swedish anthropologist named Eric Boman rediscovered them in 1903. Later, in 1967, a team from the University of La Plata, led by Dr. Mario Cicliano, carefully studied and restored the site.
Tastil's Special Status
Because of its historical importance, Tastil was named a National Historic Monument in 1997. This means it's a protected place that is important to Argentina's history.
Visiting the Museum
If you visit the area, you can also go to the Moisés Serpa Regional Museum of Tastil. It's located in Santa Rosa de Tastil. The museum opened in the same year Tastil became a National Historic Monument. Inside, you can see many interesting objects found at the Tastil site and nearby areas. One of the most amazing things on display is a mummy that is over 700 years old, dating back to the 13th century!
See also
In Spanish: Tastil para niños
