A recent serendipitous discovery on Janitzio Island, situated in Lake Pátzcuaro, Mexico, has unveiled a new facet of the region’s pre-Hispanic history. Human bones that have been worked on were found at Lake Pátzcuaro. Credit: CINAH Michoacán. In early May 2024, a traditional boat known as a tepari was uncovered, paving the way for significant archaeological revelations that have piqued the interest of researchers and the local Indigenous population. This finding has led to a collaborative effort involving Mexico’s Ministry of Culture, the National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH), and local communities focused on conservation and research.
The tepari, measuring an impressive 14.80 meters (48.56 feet), emerged during routine dredging activities on Janitzio Island. This vessel had sunk while ferrying firewood from Erongaricuaro to Janitzio. Its size and state of preservation render it an extraordinary discovery, prompting an extensive archaeological rescue operation backed by the Environment Secretariat of the Government of Michoacán.
In the wake of this initial find, researchers and community leaders heightened their efforts, revealing an area rich with pre-Hispanic artifacts. The dredging has yielded a remarkable assortment of items, including well-preserved worked human bones—mainly femurs.
The outline of the tepari, a traditional boat approximately 48.5 feet in length, can be seen here. Credit: CINAH Michoacán. Beyond the human remains, numerous ceramic and stone objects have also been retrieved. These artifacts, believed to have been offerings cast into the lake, provide insights into the cultural and religious practices of the pre-Hispanic inhabitants of Pátzcuaro.
Conservation initiatives for these archaeological materials are being undertaken in partnership with the Janitzio community. The INAH and local authorities are also striving to safeguard other tepari boats discovered in the vicinity. A key objective is to establish a community museum on Janitzio Island that will display these significant artifacts and enhance awareness of cultural heritage.
Archaeological remains found along the shores of Janitzio Island. Credit: CINAH Michoacán. The INAH is promoting a conservation culture among the local communities surrounding Lake Pátzcuaro. Residents are encouraged to report any archaeological discoveries to the INAH Michoacán Center to ensure proper documentation and preservation.
The proposed community museum on Janitzio Island aims to fulfill multiple objectives. It will not only safeguard these invaluable artifacts but also serve as a hub for cultural education and tourism, potentially benefiting the local community both economically and culturally.
