Paisajes productivos actuales y pasados en el sector norte de la Quebrada de Humahuaca

Abstract

In this paper we discuss the conformation of agricultural productive landscapes in a part of the Northern sector of the Humahuaca Quebrada. This is an area where agricultural production is hampered by to the rigorous environmental conditions that characterize it. By employing spatial analysis techniques, we characterize the general spatial structure and organization of current day settlement and agricultural production, focusing on the dense and disperse occupation patterns that can be discerned in the area. Then, we discuss the available archaeological evidences for past productive landscapes, with special attention paid to the Antumpa archaeological site. Even when the information of past productive landscapes is still fragmentary, we compare the available data with the spatial patterns of the modern settlement structure, identifying instances of long term continuity in the use of productive spaces. We point out possible evidences of significant changes as well, as represented by the emplacement of archaeological agricultural facilities on higher elevations. This could reflect both the intention to expand the area´s productive potential in certain times in the past, as well as different environmental conditions that made cultivation in those places possible.