179 Pre-Hispanic Objects Found in Remote Zoque Cave in Chiapas

In a remarkable archaeological find, experts from Mexico's National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) have uncovered 179 pre-Hispanic artifacts within a remote cave located in the La Venta River canyon. This site, referred to as Mundo Zoque Cave, is situated close to the Arco del Tiempo, a notable natural rock structure in Cintalapa, Chiapas. Spanning over 100 meters, the cave features 13 ritual deposits containing ceramic urns, bowls, and incense burners, many adorned with human figures and depictions of jaguars, owls, and snakes. Initial assessments suggest these items date back to the regional Late Classic period, approximately AD 600–900. The cave was discovered by local guide Jairo Díaz Barreiro, who informed the INAH Chiapas Center in January 2026, leading to further investigations from February to June 2026.