67 new archaeological sites found in Mexico

US researchers this year discovered 67 new pre-Hispanic and colonial sites on the mountains of the southern Mexican state of Oaxaca, says authorities in Mexico.

The National Institute of Anthropology and History (INAH) said that some of the sites date back to the year 1000 BC. They are in the municipalities of San Bartolo, San Carlos Yautepec, San Juan Lajarcia, Nejapa de Madero and Santa Ana Tavela, in Oaxaca's Sierra Sur.

Anthropologist Stacie M King, in charge of the research project, noted that experts have so far worked only on the surface, mapping the area, and taking photographs and pottery samples.

They have found the remains of a ceremonial centre and evidence of 10 pre-Hispanic ball games, as well as cave paintings and glass beads that were brought in from Spain, among other material.

The state of Oaxaca is regarded as one of the most culturally diverse in Mexico. It holds at least 16 different peoples, who have largely preserved their indigenous lifestyles despite the Spanish takeover launched i the early 16th century.