Localidad Rupestre de Chamangá

Localidad Rupestre de Chamangá is a protected area with over 40 documented rock art sites scattered across rolling terrain with granite outcrops. The paintings are located in different areas along streams and open fields where exposed granite blocks emerge naturally from the ground.

The rock paintings were created approximately 1000 years ago using a mixture of hematite and organic materials applied to granite surfaces. This timeframe places them as important records of artistic practice among indigenous peoples in the region.

The rock paintings display geometric patterns and cross-like shapes rendered in red pigments on granite surfaces. These artworks reveal how indigenous people expressed their beliefs and meanings through symbols placed across the landscape.

The site can be reached via the Paso de la Cadena road, which connects at kilometer 164 on Route 3. The nearby towns of Trinidad and Durazno offer lodging and supplies for visitors planning to explore the area.

Unlike many South American rock art sites, these paintings appear on exposed granite blocks in open fields rather than inside caves or rock shelters. This placement makes the artworks visible to anyone traveling through the rolling countryside.