discovery of this site. Modernization of Ecuador has drawn the rural people away from their lands and their traditions, but this discovery, which prompted an amazing museum as well as cultural and heritage additions to the curriculum of Santa Elena students, ensures the survival of the rich culture of this once thriving people. The Las Vegas people's customs are being preserved. The Site Today The Santa Elena archaeological site is considered a main attraction of the Ecuadorian coast. Because Ecuador has no moral issues preventing the public display of remains, there are three burials on display, protected by glass, and teachers and archaeologists, such as Stothert, use them in teaching as discussion and learning tools. In 1997 when the country was able to provide the proper funds, the Museo Amantes de Sumpa y Centro Cultural was opened to the public. The opening of this museum showed great cooperation between private and public institutions and is home to a variety of Las Vegas artifacts and remains. The site itself is a center for heritage resources and education, which promote the culture of Native coastal Ecuadorians. References Stothert, Karen E. "The New Role of the Ancient Lovers of Sumpa." Working Together. Society For American Archaeology Bulletin, n.d. Web. <http://www.saa.org/Portals/0/SAA/publications/SAAbulletin/16-2/SAA15.html> "Santa Elena Archaeological Site." Ecuador.com. Ecuador Channel, n.d. Web. <http://www.ecuador.com/sights/santa-elena-site/>. Museo Amantes De Sumpa. Ministerio De Turismo, n.d. Web. <https://web.archive.org/web/20130327120110/http://www.ecuador.travel/que-hacer/actividades/turismo-cultural/museos/345-museo-amantes-de-sumpa>. Populated places in Santa Elena Province Provincial capitals in Ecuador 1531 establishments in the Spanish Empire Populated places established in 1531