Acoustic measurements in archaeological sites in the state of Guanajuato

Abstract

This article shows the results of the acoustic characteristics of some of the most important sunken squares in the archeological sites of “Cañada de la Virgen”, “El Cóporo”, “Peralta” and “Plazuelas”, in the state of Guanajuato. Pseudo-colored digital maps about the dis­tribution of acoustic intensity in sunken squares were obtained using a sound source op­erating with an intensity level of 120 dB and a constant frequency of 440 Hz. An acoustic intensity level meter graduated in dB was also used. The authors consider that the results and data are relevant not only due to their architectonic, historical and archeological intrin­sic value, but also because they provide archaeology specialists with information that can be used to corroborate or reject some hypothesis related to the use of the squares in term of religious, ceremonial, astronomical, social or commercial exchange practices.