28th August
We have now successfully completed all the tasks set out for us by the Samaipata Centre for Archaeological and Anthropological Investigation (CIASS). As the first phase of this expedition is over, we have moved to Northern Bolivia to tackle further archaeological, biological and community aid projects.

The Parabanocito Forts
During the first phase the 25-strong multi-national team studied the two Inca forts at Parabanocito, originally discovered in the 1940s. Jerome Bradley surveyed all the major buildings in the North Fort and most in the South Fort. He is now producing a detailed plan of these unique sites for CIASS. Excavations carried out in the Meeting Hall of the South Fort by British archaeologist Bruce Mann resulted in an exciting discovery. A series of ceramic bowls were found below the occupation level at the Main Entrance. These bowls, which had been deliberately placed in this location, probably contained food as a ritual offering to the Gods. We also discovered an Inca stone bead, the first ever found at the site.

"The impressive walls and structures indicate that these sites were not just forts but probably fortified towns on the extreme eastern frontier of the Inca Empire," said Bruce Mann. We also discovered an ancient Inca road and possible trade routes from the Andes to the lowlands. Tom Bean painstakingly charted these roads. Lt. Col. Hugo Cornejo, of the Bolivian Army, also came across a walled hilltop whose age we couldn’t determine. British archaeologist Hannah Schofield examined this site.

Strange Markings in Rocks
Bolivian geologist Alfredo Jacobs discovered some puzzling depressions in the natural rock outcrops. We assume that some may have been corn grinders – but the purpose of various other depressions cannot be explained, and will require further research to determine their origin and purpose.

… And We Continued Discovering!
Archaeologist Rolando Marulanda discovered several fascinating new sites on nearby mountains including an unusual meeting point of Amazon, Andean and Chaco cultures.

In the vast Amboro Park, Major John Greenacre of the British Army Air Corps led a team that found intriguing walls and also caves filled with human bones. Pottery associated with the walls was over 1500 years old. British surveyor David Rogerson conducted a survey of these ruins.

At the famous "El Fuerte" site near Samaipata, a mysterious shaft, discovered some years ago was re-examined by Alfredo Jacobs and a team led by Dean Emsley, the Expedition’s Communications Officer. After a careful examination, the archaeologists and geologist agreed that the strange shaft is in fact a well.

"We had a series of difficult tasks in challenging terrain," said Colonel JBS who is leading the Expedition, "but the results now exceed our expectations". At the end of the project a sign appealing to visitors to protect the Parabanocito site was erected by the expedition in the hope of avoiding further damage by treasure hunters.

Words of Appreciation
Prof Omar Claure, Director of the Santa Cruz National Heritage Department and the regional representative for UNAR thanked the SES and expressed his deep gratitude to the Kota Mama Expedition for the valuable work done in the region and said, "We are most concerned by the loss of our heritage due to the lack of protection of our ancient sites. We are greatly encouraged by the example and actions of the Kota Mama Expedition to bring about measures for the conservation of these important locations. I do hope we can work with you again in the future."

The Alcalde (Mayor) of Samaipata, the Sub-Prefect of the area, the President of the Samaipata Council, and the Alcalde and Director of the Cultural and Environmental Department of El Torno also thanked the team.

Lic Mario Alvarado, Director of CIASS stressed the importance of the Expedition’s work and thanked the SES for undertaking and financing the task. Air BP, American Airlines and DHL who provided assistance to the Kota Mama Expedition were also thanked.

Helping the Children
On 27th August Colonel JBS, Yolima Cipagauta and Bruce Mann visited Valle Grande Hospital. Here they presented US$ 300, which had been collected by the SES to help sick children. The group also discussed the possibility of obtaining a donation of an incubator from a London hospital.