🏝️ Isla del Caño
Costa Rica
About This Sacred Site
Isla del Caño is a small island in the Pacific Ocean off the Osa Peninsula of Costa Rica that served as a sacred burial ground and ceremonial site for pre-Columbian indigenous cultures. Archaeological excavations have uncovered polished stone spheres (esferas de piedra), gold ornaments, and extensive burial grounds suggesting the island was used as a necropolis by the Diquís culture (c. 700–1500 CE). The mysterious stone spheres, some over two meters in diameter, are UNESCO-listed and their exact purpose remains debated.
Key Facts
- •Used as a sacred burial and ceremonial site by the Diquís culture (c. 700–1500 CE)
- •Polished stone spheres (esferas de piedra) found here are part of a UNESCO World Heritage listing
- •The stone spheres range from a few centimeters to over two meters in diameter
- •The island is now a protected biological reserve with exceptional coral reefs
- •Gold ornaments and elaborate burial goods suggest the island held high ritual significance
Location
Coordinates: 8.7091, -83.8818
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