Archaeological excavations in the Cocle Province
located in Central Panama have revealed that an
ancient civilization once inhabited these lands.
The findings suggested that the so-called Cocle
culture arose around 500 A.D. and lasted until
about 1000 A.D. Although their dating is roughly
contemporaneous with the Diquis culture to the
north in modern day Costa Rica, the art they left
behind suggests that they were a unique,
independent civilization. Cocle art, which
consists primarily of unslipped or buff slipped
pottery and terracotta sculptures, is
distinguished by their polychrome hues and
lively asymmetrical motifs which often include
animal themes.
- (PF.4191b)
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