Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña (MAAM) Guide
Unveiling the Secrets of the Inca Ice Mummies Guide
The Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña (MAAM), or the High Mountain Archaeology Museum, in Salta, Argentina, offers a unique and poignant glimpse into the Inca civilization. It's not your typical museum filled with artifacts behind glass; instead, it focuses on the incredibly well-preserved remains of three Inca children, discovered frozen on the slopes of the Llullaillaco volcano. These children, believed to have been sacrificed as part of an Inca ritual, provide invaluable insights into their beliefs, practices, and the harsh realities of life in the Andes centuries ago. The museum's existence is directly tied to the 1999 discovery of the "Children of Llullaillaco." These mummies, preserved by the extreme cold and dry conditions at high altitude, are remarkably intact, offering a wealth of information about Inca life. The ritual of Capacocha, of which these children were victims, was a significant part of Inca cosmology, intended to maintain cosmic order and ensure the prosperity of the empire. The museum carefully curates the artifacts found alongside the mummies, including textiles, pottery, and miniature figurines, all providing context to the lives and beliefs of these individuals and the society they belonged to. Visiting MAAM is a deeply moving experience. The museum carefully controls the environment to preserve the mummies, which are displayed on a rotating basis to minimize exposure. Beyond viewing the mummies, visitors can learn about the scientific processes used to study them, the cultural significance of the Capacocha ritual, and the challenges of archaeological research at high altitudes. The museum also offers educational programs and guided tours to enhance the visitor experience. While Salta doesn't have a unique culinary tradition directly linked to the MAAM, the city is known for its empanadas salteñas, locro (a hearty stew), and humitas (corn cakes), which you can enjoy at local restaurants after your visit.
Transportation
The MAAM is located in the heart of Salta, on Mitre 15. It's easily accessible by taxi or by walking from most hotels in the city center. Several bus lines also stop near the museum, including lines 5A, 5B, 5C, 6A, 6B, 7A, and 8A. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Opening Hours
Tuesday to Sunday: 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Ticket Price
General Admission: ARS 3000