San Andrés Archeological Park

San Andrés Archeological Park
San Andrés is one of the largest pre-Hispanic centers in El Salvador. It used to be a regional capital between 600 to 900 AD. This ancient community covered a total of around 200 hectares and consisted of a monumental center surrounded by a large common residential area.

The site comprises an acropolis, which is an elevated plaza with pyramids and houses on top. There is also a large plaza on the north side where there are other pyramids, including a bell-shaped one. Most of the structures are open to the public, making your tour more entertaining thanks to its beautiful green landscapes.

According to researchers, farmers lived in small huts in the surroundings, harvesting the main products, such as corn, beans and pepian. All the buildings were made of adobe blocks, except for two structures that were built with blocks of volcanic tuff, known locally as talpetate. Details of the layout of the acropolis and every other structure are on display in the museum.

It is believed that San Andrés came to rule the Zapotitán valley, and some neighboring areas, such as the Las Hamacas valley, now San Salvador.

San Andrés is usually hot, so it is better to wear appropriate clothes and shoes. Do not forget to bring a hat. It is also recommended that you bring your food, as the site has picnic areas and a cafeteria, where you can find water, soft drinks, hydrant drinks, and snacks.

For more information, you can contact the Ministry of Culture. Please, send an email to the following address comunicaciones@cultura.gob.sv or call at +503 2501-4400

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Near places

Joya de Cerén Archeological Park
Casa Blanca Archeological Park
El Tazumal Archeological Park

Joya de Cerén Archeological Park

The Joya de Cerén Archaeological Park is an icon of pre-Hispanic culture that describes to visitors what the daily life of the Mayans was like. It was declared a World Heritage Site in 1993 and is also called The Pompeii of America, being compared to the archaeological site of Italy, therefore it is a must-see destination in El Salvador.

It is characterized by being the only village in El Salvador with evidence of the daily life of the Mesoamerican inhabitants more than 1,500 years ago. It displays an excellent state of preservation of ancient botany and fauna.

According to the Ministry of Culture, the village was buried by the eruption of the Loma Caldera volcano around 650 AD. As a result of this natural event, the structures and archaeological relics remain intact and in good condition. The tour of this place full of history is an experience that you will not regret.

A curious fact is that the new town of Joya de Cerén, located less than 1 kilometer away from the discovered structures, is made up mostly of peasants who use techniques similar to those of the old settlers, and who offer you their products and clay crafts.

For more information, you can contact the Ministry of Culture. Please, send an email to the following address comunicaciones@cultura.gob.sv or call at +503 2501-4400

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