GRANADA, Nicaragua — Ancient stone statues from Zapatera Island, dated to around 800-1200 AD, are on display at the Centro Cultural Convento San Francisco in Granada. The cultural center, located near Parque Central, showcases regional history through archaeological artifacts.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Centro Cultural Convento San Francisco in Granada, Nicaragua, houses a remarkable collection of ancient stone statues recovered from nearby Zapatera Island. These pre-Columbian artifacts, dating from approximately 800-1200 AD, offer a window into the rich cultural heritage of the region's indigenous peoples. Zapatera Island, located in Lake Nicaragua, is renowned for its archaeological significance. The statues found there are attributed to the pre-Columbian cultures that inhabited the area, possibly including the Chorotega and Nicarao peoples. These stone sculptures typically feature anthropomorphic and zoomorphic designs, reflecting the religious beliefs and artistic traditions of ancient Mesoamerican civilizations. The Centro Cultural Convento San Francisco, situated just blocks from Granada's Parque Central, serves as a vital repository for these historical treasures. Housed in a former Franciscan convent dating back to the 16th century, the center plays a crucial role in preserving and showcasing Nicaragua's archaeological heritage. The statues from Zapatera Island are part of a larger collection that includes artifacts from various periods of Nicaragua's history. Their presence in the museum provides visitors with tangible connections to the region's pre-Hispanic past. These stone carvings offer insights into ancient religious practices, social structures, and artistic techniques of the indigenous cultures that flourished in the area over a millennium ago.
Size: 6706px × 4476px
Location: Centro Cultural Convento San Francisco, Granada, Granada Department, Nicaragua
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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