El Gigante Rock Shelter: Archaic Mesoamerica and Transitions to Settled Life

Appendix III: Notes on Archaeological Conservation

A further aim of the Proyecto El Gigante was to assess and address the continued destruction of the irreplaceable archaeological resources of the La Estanzuela Valley. Addressing this issue proved to be difficult, the site remains vulnerable to the actions of looting and vandalism.

Cuevas have a strong presence in the minds of most local people. Conversations with many local residents invariably turned to my business in the area and that I worked in the caves of the area. Many responded with stories of Spanish plata associated with mysterious circumstances or dreams, and wondered whether I was scared to spend so much time in them. The cave’s place in folk myth (as a source of hidden treasure) unfortunately contributes to the difficulty in protecting the archaeological resources of El Gigante and other sites.

The continuance of this research depends on the education of the community of La Estanzuela and the citizens of Marcala. Stewardship of this world-class archaeological resource can not be imposed from the outside, and is currently lacking. The information that we scientists derive from archaeological sites must be disseminated to the public, and its value made clear if we are to hope that these resources will be preserved. If a proposed "Parque Nacional de El Gigante" is to become a reality, a workable "management plan" for the valley must be implemented. There is significant local interest in seeing this dream come true, including support from the Marcala Rotary Club and U.S. Peace Corps volunteers stationed in Marcala. Toward this end future field work should include village meetings to discuss "the plan" and perhaps lectures at the high-schools in Marcala.

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