In a significant archaeological development, approximately 30 human skeletons have been unearthed from the ruins of Las Mercedes Church in Pueblo Viejo, Azua. This discovery holds particular historical importance as researchers speculate the remains may include those of Enriquillo, the legendary Taíno cacique who mounted a famous resistance against Spanish colonizers during the sixteenth century.
The extensive excavation project, now concluding its initial phase, is spearheaded by distinguished Dominican archaeologist Kathleen Martínez. Her international team employed advanced Israeli ground-penetrating radar technology to detect subsurface anomalies before conducting precise excavations. Additional specialized equipment was imported from Egypt to meet the project’s technical demands, highlighting the multidisciplinary nature of modern archaeological science.
Currently, researchers are developing comprehensive osteological profiles for each individual, documenting biological characteristics including sex, physical stature, and other vital indicators. The subsequent phase will involve sophisticated DNA analysis to establish genetic origins and potentially identify Enriquillo among the recovered remains.
Concurrent with the anthropological investigation, restoration experts have meticulously preserved the church ruins using historically accurate methods. Under the guidance of restoration specialist María Luz Carretel, over 240 original stone blocks were cataloged and reassembled through anastylosis—a technique that exclusively utilizes original materials without modern additions like cement.
This groundbreaking research, sponsored by the Macarrulla Foundation, represents the culmination of more than ten years of historical and archaeological investigation. The project now advances to its most anticipated stage: genetic identification that could fundamentally reshape understanding of indigenous Caribbean resistance movements. Results from the DNA analysis are expected to be published later this year.