The San Vito culture of Costa Rica is an ancient pre-Columbian culture that flourished between the 8th and 12th centuries. It is one of the oldest and most influential cultures in the region, and its influence can still be seen in the modern day. The San Vito culture was based in the region known as the Southern Zone of Costa Rica, and it was characterized by its strong agricultural practices, its use of stone tools, its elaborate pottery, and its impressive architecture.
The San Vito culture was first discovered in the late 19th century, when a group of archaeologists from the University of Costa Rica began excavating a site in the Southern Zone. The site, which was located near the modern-day city of San Vito, contained a large number of artifacts that were indicative of a complex and developed culture. The artifacts included a variety of pottery, stone tools, and jewelry. The archaeologists also discovered a number of structures, including a large pyramid, which was believed to have been used for religious ceremonies.
The San Vito culture was a highly organized and hierarchical society. The population was divided into two classes: the upper class, which was composed of the elite, and the lower class, which was composed of the commoners. The upper class was responsible for the governing of the society, and they held the majority of the political power. The lower class was responsible for carrying out the day-to-day activities of the society, such as farming and fishing.
The San Vito culture was highly advanced in terms of its agriculture. They developed a system of terraces and irrigation canals that allowed them to grow a variety of crops, including maize, beans, squash, and chili peppers. They also developed a variety of tools for cultivating the land, such as stone axes and hoes. In addition, they were skilled artisans, producing a variety of pottery and jewelry.
The San Vito culture was also well known for its impressive architecture. The most famous structure is the Pyramid of San Vito, which was constructed in the 10th century and is believed to have been used for religious ceremonies. The pyramid is made up of five tiers, with each tier representing a different level of the society. The pyramid is still standing today and is a popular tourist attraction.
The San Vito culture is a fascinating example of a pre-Columbian culture that flourished in Costa Rica. Its influence can still be seen in the modern day, and its impressive architecture and artifacts are a testament to the skill and ingenuity of its people.