Guilá Naquitz Cave

The cave entrance spans 8 by 10 meters, reaching depths of 140 centimeters through five distinct geological strata at 1,926 meters elevation.

Archaeological excavations from the 1960s revealed continuous human presence dating back to 10,750 years ago, with seasonal occupation patterns by pre-ceramic hunter-gatherers.

The cave contains evidence of early plant domestication in the Americas, including squash, bottle gourds, and the transformation of teosinte into modern maize.

Visitors can access the cave site, located 5 kilometers northwest of Mitla, as part of the larger archaeological complex including the Yagul ruins.

Scientists discovered squash rinds with increased thickness dating back 8,000 years, indicating deliberate plant breeding by ancient inhabitants.

Inception: 10,750 years BCE

Part of: Prehistoric Caves of Yagul and Mitla in the Central Valley of Oaxaca

GPS coordinates: 16.97528,-96.30889

Latest update: May 16, 2025 01:02