Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña (MAAM) | Salta

Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña (MAAM) – Museum of High-Altitude Archaeology

The Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña (MAAM) is a renowned museum located in the city of Salta, Argentina. The museum specializes in the archaeology of the high-altitude regions of the Andes and is home to some of the most significant archaeological finds related to the Inca civilization and pre-Columbian cultures of the region. It offers an insightful glimpse into the rich history of the Andean culture, with a particular focus on the high-altitude rituals and sacrificial practices of ancient civilizations.

History and Significance

• The MAAM was established in 2004 and quickly became one of the most important archaeological museums in Argentina. Its unique focus on high-altitude archaeology sets it apart from other museums, as it explores the culture and rituals of ancient people who lived in the challenging environment of the Andes.
• The museum's mission is to preserve and promote the understanding of the pre-Columbian cultures of the Northwest Argentina and their connections with the Inca Empire.

Main Exhibits

1. Mummies of the Llullaillaco Volcano

• One of the most famous attractions of the MAAM is the mummies of the Llullaillaco volcano, which are displayed in a specially designed climate-controlled exhibit. These mummies were discovered in 1999 at an altitude of more than 6,700 meters (22,000 feet) on the summit of the Llullaillaco Volcano.
• The mummies are believed to have been part of a sacrificial ritual performed by the Incas. These sacrifices were made to honor the gods, with children being selected for their purity and innocence.
• The mummies on display include the remains of three Inca children, referred to as the "Children of Llullaillaco". They are among the best-preserved Inca mummies ever discovered and offer incredible insights into the Incan rituals and cultural practices.
• The exhibit is housed in a special chamber designed to maintain the cold, dry environment necessary to preserve the mummies.

2. Inca Artifacts

• The museum features a vast collection of Incan and pre-Incan artifacts, including pottery, textiles, tools, and religious objects. These items help to illustrate the daily life, rituals, and social organization of the indigenous peoples of the Andes.
• Visitors can explore various reconstructed tombs and cultural objects that shed light on the material culture of the region.

3. High-Altitude Archaeology

• The museum's permanent exhibitions delve into the theme of high-altitude archaeology. This includes the study of how ancient Andean cultures adapted to the extreme altitudes of the Andes Mountains, and how they conducted rituals at such heights.
• Artifacts related to ritual offerings, sacrificial practices, and ceremonial objects used by the Incas are featured prominently. These exhibits provide valuable insight into how these ancient cultures viewed the mountains as sacred places where they communicated with the gods.

4. Temporary Exhibitions

• In addition to its permanent displays, the MAAM regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that showcase different aspects of Andean culture, archaeology, and history. These exhibitions may include art, photography, and new archaeological findings.

Architectural Design

• The museum is housed in a historic building in the heart of Salta's city center. The building was renovated and modernized to create a space suitable for the preservation of the delicate artifacts and mummies.
• The architecture blends the traditional colonial-style exterior with a modern interior, designed to accommodate advanced display techniques, temperature-controlled chambers, and multimedia exhibits that enhance the visitor experience.

Educational Programs

• The MAAM is also a place for education, offering a range of workshops, lectures, and guided tours aimed at both locals and tourists. The museum works closely with schools and universities to provide educational outreach programs.
• Visitors can participate in workshops that help them understand archaeological processes, such as excavation techniques, artifact preservation, and mountain archaeology.

Visitor Experience

1. Museum Facilities

• The MAAM is equipped with modern amenities to ensure a comfortable and informative visit. There are multimedia guides, which provide an in-depth explanation of the exhibits in various languages, including Spanish, English, and other languages.
• The museum is also home to a gift shop offering a selection of books, replicas of artifacts, and local handicrafts.

2. Interactive Elements

• The museum features interactive displays that allow visitors to learn more about the archaeological techniques used to discover and preserve the Llullaillaco mummies and other Inca artifacts.

Best Time to Visit

• Year-Round: The MAAM is open year-round, making it a great stop at any time of the year. However, it's especially popular during the tourist season (from October to March) when Salta sees more visitors.
• Weekdays: To avoid crowds, it’s a good idea to visit on weekdays, as weekends can be busier, particularly during the high season.

How to Get There

• Location: The Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña is centrally located in Salta on Calle Mitre 77, close to Plaza 9 de Julio.
• By Car: Visitors can easily reach the museum by car or taxi from most parts of the city, with public parking available nearby.
• Public Transport: The museum is easily accessible via public transportation, including buses and taxis.

Ticket Information

• The entrance fee to the MAAM is reasonable and typically includes access to the permanent exhibitions and special displays.
• Discounts are available for students and local residents. It’s a good idea to check the museum’s official website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information on opening hours and ticket prices.

Conclusion

The Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña (MAAM) is an essential stop for anyone interested in the rich history and archaeological heritage of the Andean region. The museum offers a deep dive into the ancient civilizations of the Andes, particularly the Inca Empire, with its incredible collection of artifacts, mummies, and archaeological findings. With its unique focus on high-altitude archaeology and its interactive exhibits, the MAAM provides an unforgettable and educational experience for all visitors.