The National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), together with the Ministry of Culture of the Government of Mexico and the INAH Oaxaca Center, has confirmed the discovery of significant archaeological remains in the municipality of San Pedro Jaltepetongo, in the state of Oaxaca.
According to an official press release, the discovery was verified during an inspection visit conducted on January 12, 2026.
Specialists at the INAH Oaxaca Centre concluded that around 60 archaeological artefacts examined are pre-Hispanic funerary offerings from the Late Postclassic period (1300–1521 AD).
The artefacts showcase distinctive stylistic and technological features characteristic of the Mixtec cultural tradition, highlighting the region’s historical importance in the final centuries before the Spanish arrival.
Among the objects identified are at least 26 black obsidian beads, two tubular obsidian beads, twelve metal beads—presumably gold—and a metal pendant, perhaps depicting Ehécatl, the Mesoamerican god of the wind.
Experts attribute these elements to coalescing into a singular ceremonial necklace. The assemblage also consists of polychrome tripod vessels, bowls with composite silhouettes, globular bowls, jugs with pouring handles, grey and cream semi-spherical bowls, tripod bowls with sealed bases, and a polychrome plate prepared in the Mixtec manner.
The objects are well preserved, despite being centuries underground. It was said that, through long exposure to limestone and a moist atmosphere, a thin calcareous layer formed that protected against decay.
Mexico’s Secretary of Culture, Claudia Curiel de Icaza, stressed the deeper importance of the find on culture and shared responsibility of conserving and responsibly distributing the nation’s heritage, saying, “It shows that the rich culture of Mexico is not only deep and rich, but is also a testament to our great history.” Here are some highlights of the findings.
Each item was photographed, marked, and stored in accordance with the protocols of the national archaeological database. The materials were temporarily safeguarded at the Municipal Presidency of San Pedro Jaltepetongo by local authorities responsible for communal property.
INAH specialists gave information to the community members regarding federal heritage law, and the obligation of protecting the archaeological patrimony as a collection.
Community leaders and residents have also expressed interest in setting up a local museum that can show newly discovered artifacts and materials recovered from previous excavations, underscoring how institutions and communities engage with each other to safeguard Mexico’s cultural legacy.
Sources : INAH
