Cuahilama, a hill and archaeological site located in the southeastern part of Mexico City, near the neighborhood of Santa Cruz Acalpixca, holds a rich tapestry of history that spans several pre-Hispanic civilizations. Despite its significant cultural heritage, Cuahilama has not received the attention it deserves, both from the academic community and the authorities responsible for its preservation.
Artwork and Inscriptions
Balamku
Balamku, known for its exceptional preservation of Maya frescoes, is an ancient Maya archaeological site in Campeche, Mexico. Discovered in 1990, it has provided significant insights into Maya civilization. The site’s name means ‘Jaguar Temple’ in the Maya language. Balamku’s frescoes are a key highlight, offering a glimpse into the religious and social practices of the Maya people.
Tomb of the Leopards
The Tomb of the Leopards is one of the most striking and well-preserved tombs in the necropolis of Monterozzi, located near Tarquinia, Italy. It is famous for its vibrant frescoes, including the eponymous leopards, which are a testament to the artistic skills of the Etruscans. The tomb dates back to the 5th century BC and provides invaluable insights into Etruscan society, beliefs, and funerary practices.
Ometepe Petroglyphs
The Ometepe Petroglyphs are a collection of ancient rock carvings found on Ometepe Island in Lake Nicaragua. These petroglyphs are significant due to their quantity, quality, and the light they shed on the island’s pre-Columbian inhabitants. They depict a variety of images, including spirals, abstract forms, and human-like figures, suggesting a rich cultural and religious life. The petroglyphs are scattered across the island, with some located in remote areas, making them a subject of intrigue and study for archaeologists and historians alike.
Petroglyphs of Sikachi-Alyan
The Petroglyphs of Sikachi-Alyan are a collection of ancient rock carvings found on the banks of the Amur River in Russia. These engravings depict a variety of scenes and symbols, including animals, boats, and mysterious figures. They offer a window into the spiritual and daily life of the indigenous peoples of the region, dating back to the Neolithic period. The petroglyphs are a testament to the artistic expression and cultural significance of the area’s ancient inhabitants.
Gomareti stelae
Dating back to the pre-Christian era, the Gomareti Steles are among the most significant artifacts of Georgian culture. These stone stelae and crosses, discovered in the vicinity of Gomareti, hold immense value not only for the study of Georgian art history but also for understanding the early history of the Georgian Church. The steles serve as a vital source of historical knowledge, adorned with contemporary ornaments and bearing lapidary inscriptions that classify them as epigraphic monuments. The region of Kvemo Kartli, with Gomareti at its heart, is recognized as a principal center for the study of these ancient artifacts.