Ancient Success Story
Earlier this summer, archaeologists unveiled an ancient Peruvian city from 3,800 years ago: Peñico.
The newly revealed site features 18 structures, including public buildings and residential units. Archaeologists have found clay sculptures, ceremonial tools, beaded necklaces, and musical instruments that were once used to SUMMON people in the area.
Peruvian archaeologist Dr. Ruth Shady, who has spent the last 30 years working in the area, said the newly excavated site provides new evidence that the people in the area at the time were able to adapt to climate disaster. Peñico was home to the Caral, one of the world’s most ancient and peaceful societies. The Caral predated the Aztec, Maya, or Inca. The Caral settlement flourished 5,000 years ago, and the residents grew crops, traded with others, and gathered shellfish, seaweed, and fish along the coast.
“They had intercultural relationships with people of the jungle, the mountains and across large distances as far as Ecuador and Bolivia, but always peacefully,” said Shady.
Despite their success, the Caral people faced a climate challenge when faced with a drought that lasted more than 100 years.
The discovery of Peñico proves that some of the Caral people adapted by moving to a location closer to water sources. Despite the scarcity of the time, there is no evidence of weapons or war.
“Peñico continues Caral’s tradition of living in harmony with nature and relating to other cultures with respect,” said Shady.
Peñico is north of Peru’s capital, Lima. After eight years of excavation and conservation work, the site is now open to tourists. Peñico likely still has more secrets of the past to reveal. Shady said there is more to learn as many buildings are still covered by the desert.
For those who visit, there are walking routes through the ruins as well as reception areas for visitors and a museum. The site also opened for a brand new festival this summer: Peñico Raymi, a public festival held in July to celebrate the site’s cultural history and legacy.
