The Alcaya Museum houses artefacts from the nearby archaeological site of Alcaya, evidence of the extraordinary development of this civilisation.
Among the exhibits preserved by the museum, the mummies are the items that most strike and attract the attention of the visitors.
The Alcaya Museum is a must for anyone who has already visited or intends to visit the archaeological site of the same name, because it houses many delicate artefacts. The display features numerous objects made by the ancient inhabitants of the area, which they used in their daily lives: daggers, arrows, stingers, ropes and slings made from skins.
Although predominantly agricultural, the ancient community of Alcaya also dedicated itself to breeding llamas and alpacas, from which they could source wool for weaving textiles. Inside the museum you can admire some beautiful ornamental details woven into the ponchos, capes, jumpers, sashes and tablecloths woven by the expert hands of the ancient textile artisans.
The museum also displays ceramics with rather interesting characteristics, containers, work materials, beakers and pots decorated with the typical geometric patterns of the Pucara culture.
Among the exhibits in the museum of Alcaya, the ones that most strike the visitor are the mummies from the archaeological site of Alcaya. Today, these mummies are exhibited inside cases that guarantee the best possible conservation of these very old and particularly delicate human remains. They are remains that arouse a great deal of interest for their extraordinary state of preservation - the braids of hair of different sizes, thicknesses and colours that seem freshly plaited are particularly amazing - and evoke everyday life in remote times.
The museum is located a short walk away from the hostel run by the community at Alcaya. Visiting this small but exciting site is the best way to complete your visit to Alcaya and learn about the daily life of its ancient inhabitants. Don't miss this opportunity, contact us to arrange your visit.
Additional Info
It is recommended to wear warm cand windprrof clothing, comfortable shoes, sunglasses and to bring a sleeping bag and a camera.
Suggested periods
- Autumn
- Spring
- Summer
- Weekend
- Winter
Where
Community of Alcaya, municipality of Salinas de Garci Mendoza, department of Oruro.
Transportation
By private transport
From La Paz or Oruro by road (direction Uyuni). Take the detour at Estancia Condo towards Salinas de Garci Mendoza; from this point follow the dirt road until reaching the community of Alcaya. Average duration of the trip: about 8 hours from La Paz.
By public transport
There is no public transportation available.
Visiting Rules
For your health and the health of local population, remember to comply with all biosecurity protocols and codes of conduct before and during your stay: wear a mask and carry hand sanitizer, plus a first aid kit, sunscreen and medications for altitude sickness.
During your visit remember to protect the cultural and natural heritage of the region.