Archaeologists discover 3,800 years old burial site at an ancient temple in Peru

Archaeologists in Peru have recently unearthed a compelling finding at a pre-Incan temple dedicated to a water cult, unveiling a burial site dating back approximately 3,800 years. This discovery possesses the potential to significantly reshape our comprehension of South American history.

Details of the Burial Site

The burial site, situated at the temple, contained the remains of four individuals – two children, a teenager, and an adult – all buried on their sides and facing the mountains. Alongside the individuals, symbolic offerings such as stone pendants and snails were also discovered, adding a layer of intrigue to the site.

Temple and Cultural Significance

This temple had formerly been linked with an ancient water cult dating back over 3,000 years, and the recent excavation focused on a small section of 51sqm, revealing boulder walls and pottery fragments from the Early Formative period, spanning 1800 BC to 900 BC. This period marked the inception of large construction projects and early pyramids using ceramics by the ancient people of Peru.

Comparison with Other Historical Sites

The significance of this discovery is remarkable as it predates the construction of Machu Picchu, one of Peru’s most renowned archaeological sites, by approximately 600 years. It thus serves as a testament to the ancient civilizations that once populated the continent.

Connections to Other Cultures

The archaeological findings have drawn parallels with early ceramic fragments found in other significant settlements in Peru, hinting at possible connections between different ancient cultures in the region, including Gramalote and Huaca Negra.

Regarding Peru’s ancient history, evidence indicates that people had been inhabiting the region for over 15,000 years. However, around 5000-3000 BC, societies with political systems began to emerge, followed by the institutionalization of religion around 2000 BC. Despite this, little is known about the specific details of these ancient societies and their belief systems.

Symbolic Significance of the Burial

The position of the bodies facing the mountains has led scientists to speculate about the symbolic significance of mountains in Andean cosmology. Mountains not only hold cultural importance but also serve as a crucial water source for irrigation in the arid landscape, leading researchers to believe that the bodies were placed there as a form of reverence for the element of water.

Preservation Concerns and Local Responsibility

Amidst the excitement of this discovery, archaeologists have expressed concerns about the potential threats facing the temple site. The increase in agricultural activity in the surrounding area poses a serious risk to the preservation of this invaluable cultural heritage, prompting an appeal to local communities to assume collective responsibility in safeguarding and protecting these relics.

Tourism vs. Preservation

While the tourist potential of the area is undeniable, the archaeologists stress the importance of valuing and preserving cultural identity, emphasizing the urgency of actions to protect the site before it’s too late.

A Window into South America’s Ancient Past

The unearthing of this mysterious burial site at the ancient temple in Peru serves as a compelling reminder of the rich and complex history of South America, casting light on the ancient civilizations that once prospered in the region.