Ita Letra Petroglyphs

Ita Letra, the lettered stone, is a sandstone outcrop in the Ybytyruzu hills carrying carved marks: lines, grooves, circles and forms that some observers have read as writing and others as abstract or figurative rock art, cut into the rock face over an area of several metres. Their date is not established and interpretations range widely, including claims connecting them to transatlantic visitors that have no archaeological support; the balance of professional opinion treats them as indigenous rock art of uncertain age. Reaching the site means a rough track and a walk through forest, usually with a local guide, and the surrounding Ybytyruzu reserve holds waterfalls and the country's highest peak.

The main sights

• The carved marks - the lines, grooves and forms on the rock face.
• The sandstone outcrop - the rock the carvings are cut into.
• The forest walk - the approach through the Ybytyruzu woodland.
• The range - the hills the site sits within.

When to go

April to October in the cooler dry months for the walk; the track is difficult after rain. Guides are arranged locally and are worth having to find the site. Low sun shows the carvings best.

Before you go

Claims linking the carvings to ancient transatlantic visitors are not supported by evidence, though they are repeated locally. The site is unmanaged with no interpretation. The track and walk need a guide. There are no facilities.

Nearby

Colonia Independencia lies below; Cerro Tres Kandu is in the same range.