Salt Mines of Maras

The Salt Mines of Maras (or "Salineras de Maras") is one of the largest salt extraction centers of prehispanic origin in Cusco. It is in the Urubamba Province in Cusco in southeast Peru, at an elevation of 3,200 m (10,500 ft) above sea level.

Salt Mines of Maras
Salt pan
Salineras (salt evaporation ponds) in Maras, Peru
Location within Peru
Coordinates: 13°18′01″S 72°09′20″W
Location	Urubamba Province, Cusco Region
Area
• Total	2 hectares (0.020 km2)
Elevation	3,200 m (10,500 ft)

Overview

The Salt Mines have a long history dating back to the Early Horizon period, with continued use throughout pre-Hispanic times and subsequent periods, including the Inca, Colonial, Republican, and Contemporary eras.

Archaeological research in the Pakallamoqo sector has uncovered artifacts such as Chanapata ceramics dating from the Early Intermediate Period. Excavations in the Maras area have revealed archaeological sites with fragments of ceramics from various periods, including Chanapata (700 B.C.), Killke (1000 A.D.), and Inca styles.

In the 16th century, prominent figures like Don Felipe Topa Yupangui and Don Alonso Titu Atauchi, descendants of the Inca nobility, were recorded as owners of salt mines in Maras. The Royal Decree of November 1, 1591, initiated land assessments overseen by colonial authorities, documenting ownership and distribution of salt mines among different families and communities.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, control over the salt mines remained with descendants of the Inca. However, in the 19th century, ownership shifted to private individuals, leading to disputes over access and control.

In 1969, the Peruvian state assumed control of salt extraction and commercialization, but in 1980, local communities regained control with the establishment of Marasal S.A., owned by residents of Maras and Pichingoto. Today, the company manages salt administration and commercialization, with around 400 families owning salt wells in the area.