Towards an alternative scenario on the ancient occupation of the architectural complexes in the area of Mallqui and Machay (Cotopaxi province, Ecuador)

Abstract

This article presents the findings and reflections from the prospection of the area known as Mallqui- Machay, in the parish of Pucayacu, province of Cotopaxi. In 2004 and 2010, the area gained interest due to the research of historian Tamara Estupiñan and her hypothesis regarding the Inca presence in the area. However, the studies presented here, carried out in 2012, place the space in relation to its importance during earlier occupations, and in later historical stages within the axis of production and commercialization of aguardiente and sugar cane. This article gathers a description of the prospected areas, the type of architecture registered, as well as the results of the analysis of the ceramic findings. This information, as opposed to the existing quechua or kichwa vocabulary and toponyms for the area, allows us to contextualize the archaeology of the area in order to understand more completely its processes of occupation.