Mapeamento arqueológico dos Cerritos da Lagoa do Fragata, Pelotas e Capão do Leão-RS

Abstract

“Cerritos de Índios” - mounds of anthropic origin – are typical formations of some indigenous populations, which inhabited the biome Pampa, in the Southern of South America since the pre-colonial period. This dissertation aimed primarily to map archaeological occurrences of this kind located in the Fragata Lagoon area, in the drainage basin of the Patos Lagoon, between the cities of Pelotas and Capão do Leão. In addition to the survey of archaeological sites, a bibliographic review on the specialized literature about mounds was done, pointing out the divergences and concordances between the several distinct theoretical currents on the subject. Such was done in order to bring forth subsidies to further studies for new interpretations and to understand the theoretical complexity involving the Archeology of the Cerritos. One of the main concerns was also related to the preservation of the archaeological structures threatened nowadays by large ventures promoted by the government, which is usually prioritizing economic interests rather than the cultural heritage. Therefore seeking to give support so that such areas are preserved, as per disposítions provided for in the Brazilian legislation.