Agua Blanca Community
Manabí
Agua Blanca Community is an ancestral commune located in Machalilla Parish, Puerto López Canton, Manabí Province, Ecuador. It is renowned for its vibrant church painted in bright colors and the Archaeological Museum founded in 1979, showcasing artifacts from six significant pre-Columbian cultures: Valdivia, Machalilla, Chorrera, Bahía, Guangala, and Manteño. The museum's exhibits include pottery, stone, shell, metal, bone, and minerals such as turquoise, offering insight into the area's rich cultural heritage. Situated within Machalilla National Park, the community is also famous for its natural sulphur lake, whose mineral-rich waters and mud are reputed for skin benefits. Visitors can enjoy observing hummingbirds around the lake and experience a blend of natural beauty and cultural history in a protected environment. The community manages its archaeological heritage, reflecting a sustainable approach to cultural tourism.
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Tip: The best time to visit Agua Blanca is during the dry season to comfortably explore the archaeological site, museum, and sulphur lake. Entry to Machalilla National Park requires a small fee. It is recommended to purchase tickets in advance when possible. Visitors can access the community via the Troncal del Pacífico highway, followed by a 4.5 km secondary road, either on foot or by private transport. Facilities including food, beverages, lodging, and restrooms are available. Guided tours can enhance understanding of the cultural artifacts and natural features.
Interesting facts
- •The sulphur lake in Agua Blanca emits a strong odor of rotten eggs due to natural sulphur deposits.
- •The Archaeological Museum exhibits only about 30% of the material excavated by Colin Mc Ewan.
- •Six distinct archaeological cultures are represented in the museum's collection: Valdivia, Machalilla, Chorrera, Bahía, Guangala, and Manteño.
- •Hummingbirds are commonly seen feeding on flowers around the sulphur lake.
- •The community actively manages the archaeological sites, demonstrating sustainable heritage conservation.
History
The Archaeological Museum of Agua Blanca was founded in 1979 based on excavations led by American archaeologist Colin Mc Ewan, who researched the area until 1985.
The community itself is located within Machalilla Parish and has maintained its ancestral heritage through the stewardship of its archaeological sites.
Over time, the area has been inhabited by various cultures, including Valdivia and Manteño, whose artifacts are preserved in the museum.
The establishment of the museum and the community's involvement in managing the site have been key milestones in protecting and promoting the region's cultural patrimony.
Place Guide
Archaeological Museum of Agua Blanca1979
This museum houses artifacts from six ancient cultures, including ceramics, stone tools, shells, metals, bones, and minerals like turquoise. It offers maps, models, chronological series, and bilingual explanations to contextualize the exhibits culturally and historically.
Colorfully Painted Church
A small church located in the village center, renowned for its bright, vivid colors that reflect the community's vibrant cultural identity.
Sulphur Lake
A natural lake rich in sulphur, known for its strong rotten egg smell. The mineral-rich waters and mud are believed to have beneficial effects for the skin. The lake is also a habitat for hummingbirds feeding on surrounding flowers.
Contact
Phone: 099 369 3183
