Brazil inspects archaeological site of cultural significance in the Amazon

By Fred Santana – From Cenarium

MANAUS (AM) – The National Institute of Historic and Artistic Heritage (Iphan) in Amazonas carried out, between October 8 and 9, a technical inspection in the municipality of Santo Antônio do Içá (AM), in the Alto Solimões region. The action, led by archaeologists Jaime Oliveira and Marco Túlio, aimed to assess the preservation conditions of the Presidente Vargas Archaeological Site and the archaeological collection of the local community, in addition to addressing its regularization.

The inspection was conducted following a request from the Federal Prosecution Office (MPF) and is part of Iphan’s 2025 inspection plan, which prioritizes the monitoring of archaeological assets located in risk areas or of proven scientific relevance.

According to archaeologist Jaime Oliveira, the Presidente Vargas Site shows a high concentration of ceramic fragments associated with the Polychrome Tradition of the Amazon, especially from the Guarita Phase, dated between the 8th and 16th centuries AD. According to him, the material reinforces the importance of the site for understanding pre-colonial human occupations in the Alto Solimões region.

“The site is located in an area of urban expansion, with the presence of an Indigenous and riverside community. In addition to the archaeological remains, there is a small domestic collection under the custody of Chief Francisco Barroso Laranhag, consisting of materials found during construction works in the community,” explained Oliveira.

The Presidente Vargas Archaeological Site lies within an area of Indigenous Dark Earth (IDE), marked by high soil fertility and rich biodiversity, which indicates its ancestral use as a strategic settlement territory by ancient populations.

During the visit, the Iphan team conducted field reconnaissance, photographic recording, and georeferencing of the area. The team also promoted dialogue with local residents on the importance of preserving archaeological heritage and the role of communities in conserving these assets.

For Iphan’s superintendent in Amazonas, Beatriz Calheiro, the mission reinforces the Institute’s commitment to safeguarding Amazonian archaeological sites and its collaborative work with traditional populations.

“These missions are essential to ensure identification, registration, and technical monitoring, especially in the Alto Solimões region, where archaeological sites coexist closely with traditional and Indigenous communities,” she highlighted.

Following the inspection, Iphan will continue the technical analyses and include the Presidente Vargas Site in the National Register of Archaeological Sites (CNSA), strengthening preservation and awareness efforts among the local population.

Edited by Jadson Lima
Translated from Portuguese by Gustô Alves
(*) With information from the press office