Metalurgia prehispánica en las sociedades costeras del norte de Chile (Quebrada Mamilla, Tocopilla)

Abstract

We present direct and indirect evidences of metallurgical activities by hunter-gatherer and fishers populations of the arid coast of Northern Chile during Late Intermediate and Late periods. We discuss these evidences and propose the existence of a local metallurgical tradition with particular characteristics for the coastal societies in this region. This tradition complements current knowledge about the use and significance of metals in the Andes.