Laguna Dorada

Laguna Dorada
View of the 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 in Pecario in the Las Cumbres department.

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.

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  Golden mask

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  Golden plate

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  Gold jewelry

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  Golden earring