Kapeutumistas

Kapeutumistas were a pre-Columbian culture that flourished in the Ecuadorian highlands, specifically in the province of Chimborazo, from the 8th to the 15th century. The name "Kauptum" is derived from the Kichwa language, which means "wild boar" or "tapir".

Little is known about the daily life, social structure, and politics of the Kapeutumistas. However, archaeological findings suggest that they were a sedentary people, living in small villages or towns, with a mixed economy based on agriculture, herding, and hunting. They cultivated crops such as maize, potatoes, and quinoa, and hunted exotic animals like the wild vicuña.

The Kapeutumistas built small, rectangular houses using stone and adobe, with thatched roofs. Their architecture was influenced by the Chimpuceño culture, with which they shared common trade and cultural ties. Excavations have also uncovered ceramics, textiles, and metalwork, often decorated with geometric patterns and depictions of animals.

One notable aspect of Kapeutumista culture is the presence of triangular-shaped funerary structures, which were likely used for both burial and ceremonial purposes. These structures were built on top of small mounds and feature stone walls with ornate stonework.

The Kapeutumistas were absorbed into the Inca Empire in the 15th century, after which their culture was assimilated into the broader Inca tradition. Despite this, the study of Kauptum culture has shed light on the pre-Columbian history and diversity of the Ecuadorian highlands.