Current Perspectives in Ecuadorian Archaeology

Ecuador is experiencing a period of growth and increasing professionalization in the field of archaeology. Government investments for archaeological surveys have lead to the identification of new sites, and new training programs provide Ecuadorians with the necessary training for the profession. The papers in this session represent current work in Ecuador that are part of this burgeoning wave of research. The papers collectively transcend temporal and spatial boundaries. Research spans from the Formative through the Colonial Periods, and includes work from the coast and the highlands. Papers also address ethical issues and the cultural context of archaeological practice in Ecuador. By transcending these boundaries, this session builds on six decades of research into the cultures of Ecuador and provides new directions for future study.