Retomando las investigaciones en la sierra de Guasayán, Santiago del Estero. La localidad de Guampacha como primera aproximación

In this paper we present the results of new archaeological surveys in the Guasayan mountains and excavation of two archeological sites in the town of Guampacha (Santiago del Estero province). This area is little known from an archeological perspective despite the pioneering contributions of some researchers. The site known as Guampachais located in the homonymous town, near the eastern hill side of the mountain range. A survey led to observation of pottery sherds on the surface over an area of approximately 27,500 m 2 . In addition, another settlement called Veliz was recorded, 450 m northeast from Guampacha. At both sites, field work recovered pottery sherds, lithic items and archaeofaunal remains; furthermore, human remains were also found at the Guampacha site. Each of the materials was analyzed following specific methodological approaches. The goal of this work is to present the advances and results obtained from acomprehensive analysis of the archaeological context, the remains recovered and the interpretation of the landscape of Guampachatown. Both sites correspond to the agro-ceramic period of the region. They are interpreted as multiple-activity sites, including preparation and consumption of food (faunal remains recovered with evidence of processing), stone tool-making (projectile points and flakes) and pottery sherds. The latter include the different styles characteristic of the plains of Santiago del Estero, with a predominance of the Sunchituyoj style at both sites. However, the differential association with other ceramic styles leads us to propose that each site corresponds to different moments of occupation of the area. In addition, the presence of foreign ceramic styles and fauna that would not be available in the area suggests interaction with other areas of the province (Mesopotamian) and other regions ( e.g. Argentinian Northwest Valliserrana and Sierras Centrales region). Finally, it was possible to identify differentiated milling zones through the surveys in the area. Although our researchin this area is only beginning, the analysis of the materials recovered and the continuity of the investigations will provide a better understanding of the past in the Guasayan mountains, especially regarding the interaction of its inhabitants with other areas of Santiago del Estero province and other extra-provincial regions.