Abstract

Examining an area between two zones that research historically regarded separately—Central Chile and the country’s semi-arid north—presents an opportunity to consider, on several socio-spatial scales, the various degrees and characteristics of integration shown by the communities in question. In this article, we use excavation and material analyses from seven archaeological sites in Huaquén, located to the north of the Petorca and La Ligua river mouths. Given current research perspectives, the results are explored in light of their connections to the developments to each zone. There are three distinct components. The first is an Archaic component consisting of a residential camp focused on procuring marine fauna, dated to the late mid-Holocene (5000 cal. B.P.). An Early Ceramic component consisted of diverse extensive, ephemeral occupations, including a burial. Finally, a Historical component included what is likely Hispanic-Indigenous ceramics. In light of recent research perspectives, the article discusses the concept of ‘borders’ and suggests viewpoints that account for the existence of several local communities with different degrees of affiliation to regional social identities. © (2024), (Universidad Catolica del Norte). All rights reserved.