San Andres Archaeological Park

Location

Find out how to get to this destination!

Location

Find out how to get to this destination!

Ciudad Arce and San Juan Opico: La Libertad Centro

San Andrés is one of El Salvador's largest pre-Hispanic centers. San Andrés probably served as a regional capital between 600 and 900 AD. This ancient community sprawled over 200 hectares or more and included a monumental center surrounded by a broad residential area.

The site includes an elevated acropolis, pyramids, and dwellings at the top. There's also a large plaza to the north with other pyramids, including a bell-shaped mound. Most of the structures are open to the public, creating an engaging tour through beautiful green spaces.

Researchers believe the settlement was surrounded by modest dwellings for the farmers who grew staple crops such as corn, beans, and squash. All of the buildings are constructed out of mud blocks, except for two structures built from volcanic tuff, known locally as talpetate. The local museum explains the details of how the acropolis was laid out, with exhibits showing the artifacts found at the site.

Eventually, the broader Zapotitán Valley and neighboring areas likely paid tribute to San Andrés, including the Valley of the Hammocks, in what is now San Salvador.

San Andrés can be quite warm, so dress in lightweight clothing and comfortable shoes. Don't forget to bring your hat. Consider packing your own lunch; the site has a picnic area and a small cafeteria where you can find water, soft drinks, juices, and snacks.

Open from Monday to Sunday, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

HOTEL ACANTILADOS

Kilometro 41 ½, Carretera El Litoral, La Libertad

2369-1700 7599-9398

PUNTA ROCA SURF RESORT

Canton Santa Emilia, Lotificacion y playa El Cocal, Lotes 8 y 9 La Libertad

2335-3261

EL SALVADOR SURF HOUSES

Final calle principal, Block C, Lotificación San Blas, #32, La Libertad, La Libertad.

2389-6087 7887-8540

Punta del Este Hotel Restaurante

La Libertad, La Libertad

7858-0267 2325-8053

EL MALECON DE DON LITO

2a. Calle Oriente y Calle a Playa El Obispo No.3, Puerto de La Libertad, La Libertad

2335-3216 2346-1369

FISHERMAN´S RESORT LIFE

Frente al Pasaje Poniente No. 2, Lotificación el Jute, Lotes 38 y 40, La Libertad

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Hotel y Restaurante Kai Blue

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7248-4882

Hotel El Pacifico

Carretera del Litoral Km 40 ½, entrada principal Playa El Majahual, Distrito La Libertad, Municipio de La Libertad Costa, Departamento de La Libertad.

7871-3231; 7797-6765