An archaeological excavation at the El Caño Archaeological Park in the Nata District of Panama’s Cocle Province has uncovered a tomb that sheds light on the complex Cocle society in pre-Hispanic times. The tomb, believed to belong to Lord Cockle and dated to 750 AD, contains many funeral gifts, including ceramics and gold artifacts.

El Caño Archaeological Park is famous for its necropolises consisting of tombs and stone monoliths dating from 700-1000 AD. American explorer Hyatt Verrill first recognized the importance of this site in 1925 when he discovered ancient monoliths near the Rio Grande River.

Ministry of Culture (MiCultura) national heritage manager Lynette Montenegro explained that the discovery was part of an ongoing archaeological project in the park. The project, which started in 2022 and is financed by a cooperation agreement between the Ministry of Culture and the El Caño Foundation, aims to comprehensively examine Tomb No. 9 during the 2021-2024 campaigns.

Contents of the Grave: 5 pectorals, 2 gold beaded belts, 4 bracelets, 2 human shaped earrings, double crocodile earrings, 1 round beaded necklace, 2 bells, dog tooth bracelet and skirt, a set of bone flutes cultural and social It is proof of inheritance. The wealth of Kokle society.

Dr. D., director of the El Caño Foundation and head of the archaeological project since its inception in 2008. Julia Mayo emphasized the importance of this discovery. Possibly belonging to an adult male of high status, the collection provides a window into the life and death of the Rio Grande chief. Built around AD 750, the tomb is of particular interest due to the presence of offerings buried alongside the lord, indicating multiple and simultaneous burial practices.

Dr. Mayo noted that the excavation process is ongoing, so it is difficult to determine the exact number of people buried in the grave. He said this burial method, known for burying different numbers of people in a single grave, provides valuable information about the beliefs and funeral rites of the Kokle community.

Dr. Mayo explained that the Kokle lord was often buried face down over the remains of a woman, a common practice in this culture.

Built around 700 AD and abandoned around 1000 AD, El Caño Archaeological Park has led to important archaeological discoveries. In addition to the famous monoliths, the site also includes a cemetery and a ceremonial area with wooden structures. This discovery stands out for its uniqueness and insight into the funerary practices of the Cokle society.