Archaeologists have made a groundbreaking discovery in Peru by revealing a 3,500-year-old city known as Peñico, which likely served as a trading hub connecting various cultures across the Pacific coast, Andes, and Amazon. This urban center, established between 1800 and 1500 BC, predates significant early civilizations in regions like the Middle East and Asia.
Located in the northern Barranca province, Peñico sits at an elevation of about 600 meters (1,970 feet) above sea level. Drone footage shows the city’s center featuring a distinct circular structure situated on a hillside terrace alongside the remnants of stone and mud buildings. This finding positions Peñico in close proximity to the Caral civilization, which is recognized as the oldest civilization in the Americas and developed 5,000 years ago.
Ruth Shady, the head archaeologist on this project, indicated that Peñico emerged following disruptions caused by climate change that devastated the Caral civilization. The strategic location of Peñico facilitated trade and cultural exchange with coastal societies, highland communities, and those from the jungles. Archaeologist Marco Machacuay emphasized that Peñico represents the continuation of the Caral society, drawing connections between these ancient cultures.
After eight years of extensive studies, researchers have identified up to 18 significant structures in Peñico, including ceremonial temples and residential complexes. Notably, a central plaza features sculptural reliefs depicting the pututu, a traditional conch shell trumpet known for its long-distance sound projection.
This discovery not only enriches our understanding of ancient trading practices but also emphasizes the resilience and adaptability of early civilizations in the face of environmental challenges. As such, Peñico not only holds historical significance but also inspires hope for future archaeological endeavors in unraveling the intricacies of past societies.
Highlighting the importance of historical preservation and research, this unveiling of Peñico provides a remarkable opportunity to explore cultural resilience and the interconnectedness of ancient civilizations. Future studies may yield even more insights into the socio-economic dynamics of early Peruvian societies, enhancing our collective understanding of history.
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