At the archaeological sites in La Ciénaga de Arriba, it is worth comparing their features: Cerrito Colorado combines rugged terrain with enclosures, while at Montículo, a small mound, a ramp, and a mortar on the summit stand out. At Barreales, also known as Casas Viejas, there are Late Period ceramic and stone materials. A pilgrimage in 2026 adds a religious dimension to these topics.

Cerrito Colorado: Terrain and Interpretation as a Settlement

Cerrito Colorado in La Ciénaga de Arriba has rugged terrain and deep ravines. Access is very difficult on its western and northern sides. If you are considering a visit, check access options in advance, especially for these two sides.

Nineteen enclosures have been identified at Cerrito Colorado; all are isolated from one another. The site is interpreted as a protected settlement. This interpretation takes into account its elevated position, visibility, inaccessibility, and defensive features. Walls and parapet-like ramparts are considered physical and symbolic barriers to access. Cerrito Colorado is conventionally assigned to Phase II of the Belén culture. This cultural classification and the interpretation as a protected settlement address different questions: one classifies Cerrito Colorado, while the other interprets its location and features.

Montículo and Barreales: Mound and Finds

Montículo de La Ciénaga de Arriba is a small mound about four meters high, with no associated enclosures. There is a mortar on its summit, and Montículo also has an access ramp. In contrast to Cerrito Colorado, whose 19 enclosures are isolated from one another, the focus here is on the mound and its individual features. If you are considering a visit, check current access in advance.

The Barreales of La Ciénaga de Arriba, also known as Casas Viejas, offer another archaeological point of interest: there are concentrations of Late Period ceramic and stone materials. While enclosures and an interpretation as a settlement are important at Cerrito, and the mound, ramp, and mortar at Montículo, the focus at Barreales is on groups of materials. For choosing a theme, this means you can focus on the interpretation as a settlement, individual features at Montículo, or ceramics and stone at Barreales.

A Pilgrimage to Asampay

A 2026 pilgrimage led from La Ciénaga de Arriba to Asampay to honor Blessed Mamerto Esquiú. Participants walked while praying and singing; a Holy Mass was celebrated upon arrival. This provides a specific religious event alongside the archaeological features. The topics raise different questions: the archaeological sites concern terrain, structures, and materials, while the pilgrimage concerns the shared tribute and the celebration at the destination.

Discover more destinations: Belén

For the broader travel overview: Belén Department.