The Museum of High-Altitude Archaeology (MAAM) presents collections related to the archaeological heritage associated with ceremonies performed on the high peaks of the Andes. Since its opening in 2004, the museum’s primary mission has been to create a space for the conservation, research, and dissemination of the cultural contexts of the pre-Hispanic world, which hold great historical significance.
Its main collection features the archaeological heritage discovered in 1999 at the summit of Llullaillaco Volcano in Salta, Argentina. At that sacred place, more than five hundred years ago, the lives of three children and a set of miniature ceremonial objects with symbolic meaning were offered to the gods during the Inca Capacocha ceremony.
The excellent state of preservation of the children—now known as the Lightning Girl, the Boy, and the Maiden—posed a challenge for applying appropriate preservation and display techniques. The bodies of the Llullaillaco Children are kept in capsules designed following cryopreservation guidelines that ensure their correct conservation.
As a dynamic space for interaction, learning, and communication, the MAAM promotes the recognition of pre-Hispanic history, the construction of identity diversity, and collective memory. Throughout its rooms, the institution has established itself as a scientific and technological reference in the conservation and presentation of the heritage it protects. It also allows for the revaluation and reinterpretation of a past that remains alive in the practices, knowledge, and material culture that transmit a profound ancestral message.
DISSEMINATION AND OUTREACH
Among the different objectives proposed by the MAAM, one of the most important is dissemination. The collections, as well as the research and conservation work, interact with the community through exhibitions, special activities, and publications.
Among the many dissemination and outreach tasks aimed at the community are guided tours, lectures and training courses, the publication of scientific works, graphic and audiovisual materials, educational programs and visits, materials for people with visual disabilities, and activities for children, among others.
MISION
To conserve, research, and disseminate the archaeological and cultural heritage associated with Inca ceremonies known as “Capacocha.” To revalue Andean culture in a multidisciplinary context, promoting respect for diversity and helping strengthen local identities.
VISION
To be an educational, interactive, and reflective space about the region’s pre-Hispanic past and its contribution to collective memory. To establish itself as a cultural and technological reference in the conservation and presentation of the heritage it safeguards.
VALUES
Leadership. Teamwork. Direct and participatory communication. Social commitment. Diversity and inclusion. Innovation and continuous improvement.
