In brief
Archaeologists have made a significant discovery in the Barranca province of northern Peru, unveiling the remains of an ancient city named Peñico, believed to be 3,500 years old. This site served as a crucial trading hub, linking the coastal communities with those from the Andes and Amazon regions. Located approximately 200 kilometers north of Lima at 600 meters (1,970 feet) above sea level, Peñico is thought to have been founded between 1,800 and 1,500 BC. This periods coincides with the emergence of early civilizations in other parts of the world, such as the Middle East and Asia.
Drone footage of the site reveals a circular structure at Peñico's center, encircled by the remains of buildings made of stone and mud. In the course of eight years of research, archaeologists unearthed 18 structures, including ceremonial temples and residential complexes. Among the artifacts found were ceremonial items, clay sculptures of human and animal forms, and necklaces crafted from beads and seashells.Peñico is situated near Caral, recognized as the Americas' oldest civilization, which dates back to approximately 3,000 BC. Caral features remarkable architecture, including 32 monumental structures, advanced agricultural practices, and urban settlements that existed in a relative isolation from contemporaneous advanced societies in other regions like India and Egypt. Dr. Ruth Shady, who led the research at Peñico and previously excavated Caral, emphasized the discovery's importance in understanding the trajectory of Caral's civilization, particularly its responses to climatic challenges. Dr. Marco Machacuay from the Ministry of Culture noted that Peñico represents a continuation of the Caral society's legacy. This finding adds to Peru's rich tapestry of archaeological heritage, which includes renowned sites like the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and the enigmatic Nazca Lines.
