Real Alto

Real Alto is a significant archaeological site located in coastal Ecuador, specifically in the Guayas Province. It is considered one of the earliest known settlements in South America, dating back to the Valdivia culture, which flourished from approximately 3500 to 1500 BCE.

The site is notable for its complex social organization and early evidence of agriculture. Excavations at Real Alto have revealed a large ceremonial center, indicating a degree of social stratification and communal activity. The layout includes a central plaza, surrounded by residential areas and specialized structures.

Key features of Real Alto include:

• Valdivia Culture: Real Alto is a primary representative of the Valdivia culture, characterized by its distinctive pottery, particularly figurines known as "Venus figurines," and advanced agricultural practices for the time.

• Mound Structures: The site contains several mounds, likely used for ceremonial or residential purposes by elite members of society.

• Evidence of Agriculture: Archaeologists have found evidence of the cultivation of maize, beans, squash, and cotton, indicating a reliance on agriculture for sustenance.

• Trade Networks: Artifacts found at Real Alto suggest that the inhabitants participated in trade networks, exchanging goods with other communities along the coast and potentially into the interior.

Real Alto provides valuable insights into the development of early complex societies in the Americas and the origins of agriculture in South America. Ongoing research at the site continues to refine our understanding of the Valdivia culture and its contribution to the pre-Columbian history of Ecuador.