The aim of this Ph.D. thesis is to reflect on the relevance of studies in the field of preventive archaeology to the management and preservation of archaeological heritage related to colonial mining exploration contexts. We draw on the results obtained from research projects developed in the Alto Guaporé microregion to outline the occupation of this portion of Mato Grosso, characterized by a series of initiatives, events and testimonies, material and immaterial, which reflect the effort. in occupying the territory of the western border. Among the set of heritage references that characterize this territory, we discuss the episodes of mining exploration identified, emphasizing the reflection on the need to establish valuation strategies that reflect on the process of custody of cultural heritage, manifested in the form of testimonies. that characterize the Arraial de São Francisco Xavier da Chapada. Supported by elements that guide the discussion about the management of archaeological heritage, combined with theoretical and methodological assumptions associated with the field of mining archaeology, this thesis aimed to demonstrate that it is possible to practice a preventive archaeology based on scientific rigor, aiming at proposing critical reflections on its role as a tool to demonstrate the importance of archaeological heritage, in order to harmonize the interests of the discipline with the interests of society, inserting the archaeological practice within the needs and expectations of the community, ensuring the defense and preservation of the heritage.