History of the village of Guane
Their white skin and long hair characterized the Guane Indians, the first tribe to occupy the territory. The group was known for weaving cotton blankets and making clay utensils. In fact, the tribe traded cloth and clothing with other clans in the area. On the other hand, the Guanes shaped their skulls to distinguish themselves and scare their Yariguíes enemies. The latter saw in them creatures half-man and half-jaguar.
During the Spanish invasion, the conquistadors massacred the Guanes. The survivors were subjected to slavery, working in the colony’s gold mines. They were gathered in the village of Móncora, the present-day town of Guane. Colonial houses were built everywhere, while a church was built in the center of the town.
Guane is located at 800 meters above sea level. This small country village is located about ten kilometers from Barichara. Guane, nestled between the hills, calls for retreat. The setting is picturesque, punctuated by a church and a small museum.
In the village where time seems to have stopped, the streets are paved in the old style. The white houses with orange tiles illustrate the architectural imprint of the Spaniards during the colonization. The church has also well preserved its old look. Near the chapel, a stone house attracts attention.
The pueblo of Guane is ideal for relaxing and walking. You will have quickly made the tour of the place: a small square, a church, in luminous stone, the Parroquia de Santa Lucía, a museum and alleys with old charm.
Visit the archaeological museum
The “big” attraction of Guane is the visit to its archaeological museum, the “Museo Arquelogico y Paleontologico de Guane”. The locals call it the “Mummy Museum”, because it simply exhibits a mummy. But it also houses a beautiful collection of marine fossils and objects from the indigenous and colonial era.
The Museo Paleontológico y Arqueológico also holds secrets of the people and creatures that once inhabited the area. Inside, the Ceramics Room introduces the culture and way of life of the Guane people through a series of objects: bowls, jugs, pots, ancient blankets, etc. The Indian mummy is one of the most important pieces in the museum. A recent genetic study has shown that the Guane Indians share links with people from Mongolia, China and Siberia. In the Marine Fossil Room, which houses nearly 10,000 relics, archaeology enthusiasts can see sea urchins, turrets, plants and giant ammonites that have been in the area for 60 million years.
Admire the view from the Mirador del Cañon de Suárez
In Guane, don’t miss the viewpoint that overlooks the valley of the Suarez River. The view is simply superb!
Taste the sabajon
The traditional drink of Guane is called Sabajon. It is a liqueur made of brandy and milk jam, it is sweet and creamy.