Tierradentro Rock Tombs

National Archeological Park of Tierradentro


Useful Information

Location: Tierradentro, municipality of Inza, Department of Cauca.
Accessible only by dirt roads from Popayán or San Augustín. Its a rough half day bus ride.
Open:
Fee: Per Person USD 2.50 combined ticket for two museums and the tombs. Valid for two days.
Classification: SubterraneaCave Tomb ArchaeologyPainted Cave
Light: bring torch.
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As far as we know this information was accurate when it was published (see years in brackets), but may have changed since then.
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History

1995 inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

Description

This is the rock tomb capitol of Colombia, over 100 tombs have been discovered here. Some are circular about two to seven meters in diameter. The dome like vaults of the larger tombs are supported by massive rock pillars. The chambers are painted in geometric designs. Most of the remains, funeral urns etc have been taken to the local Museo Arquelógico. A 10 minute walk up the hill from the museum will take you to Segovia, the most important site with 28 tombs. Some tombs lack lighting so bring a torch. Other tombs can be found nearby at El Duende and Alto de San Andrés.


Text by Tony Oldham (2002). With kind permission.