Laguna Dorada
Laguna Dorada | |
---|---|
Location | Pecario |
Type | Lake |
Basin countries | Pecario |
Max. length | 700 m |
Max. width | 650 m |
Surface area | 19.8 ha (49 acres) |
Average depth | 120 metres (410 ft) |
Max. depth | 381 ft (116 m) |
Laguna Dorada is a lake located Pecario in the Las Cumbres departments.
Geography
Until 1970, it was suggested that the lake's circular shape was due to a meteorite crater. However, in-depth scientific research noted the absence of characteristic meteorite minerals on site. The most probable theory is that of the collapse of an ancient volcano upon itself.
History
The Laguna Dorada gets its name from the fact that the lake was sacred to the Guaruma civilization, who celebrated ceremonies there in which the future king bathed covered in gold, which he left in the water, and other attendees also threw jewels and gold into the lake's waters.
The Laguna Dorada was discovered in 1637 by the Iberic conquistador Jose Antonio Sangüesa. Since the late 19th century, several archaeological expeditions have led to the discovery of unique Guaruma goldsmithing pieces. Most of the treasures are exhibited at the Archaeological Museum of Bella Vista.