Megalithic Structures of San Agustin

Posted 20th August 2015

The site makes up an enormous archaeological zone, covering an area of 200 km2; something that has contributed to the site being added to the UNESCO world heritage list.

Some of the earliest known carved structures found here date back to 2000 BC. A prominent hypothesis suggests that the site at San Agustin was thought to be one of the only accessible points where two civilisations could meet and trade. The presence of numerous volcanic rocks in this area meant that it very quickly became adorned with symbolic statues that signified burial spots of the dead. These statues depict gods and supernatural beings and that became centre pieces used in ancient funeral rituals. Tombs, burial mounts, and other funerary structures were then placed around these statues.

The symbolism of these statues suggests that the tribes here were trying to link their deceased ancestors with the power of the supernatural; something that helped them understand the world that surrounded them. This theory is backed by the presence of jaguar, eagle, and frog sculptures also found here.

However, this is just one interpretation. There has still been no firm reason given for the real symbolism behind these statues and what role they played within society here.

The vast array of expressions seen on the faces of these statues has only confused archaeologists and blurred folklore. However, there has been the suggestion that perhaps there is a tendency to read too far into the expressions that these structures possess. One strain of thought is that the facial expressions are reflections of the personalities of the dead buried near or around particular statues. They simply acted as a visual reminder to the tribe/s about what sort of person is buried here, or maybe how that person died. Basically, the statue’s expression gives one overriding emotion that best encapsulates the life of a person buried nearby.

An estimated 70,000 tourists visit the park annually, with each visitor looking to form their own hypothesis. Walking amongst these stones, you can’t help but feel that you’re in the presence of living beings that reside eternally in these mystical monuments.