3800-Year-Old City of Peñico: Peru's New Archaeological Gem Opens to the Public

Edited by: Ирина iryna_blgka blgka

Archaeologists have announced the discovery of Peñico, a 3,800-year-old city located in the Supe Valley, Huaura Province, Lima Region, Peru. This urban center, known as the "City of Social Integration," flourished between 1800 and 1500 BC, contemporary with early civilizations in the Middle East and Asia.

Peñico's strategic location, 600 meters above sea level on a geological terrace parallel to the Supe River, facilitated communication and exchange between coastal, highland, and jungle communities. This fostered social, political, and economic integration in the region.

Excavations have revealed 18 structures, including public and residential buildings, and the Ceremonial Hall of the Pututos. This hall features sculptural reliefs depicting pututos, trumpets made from marine shells used in community rituals. Additionally, unbaked clay sculptures representing anthropomorphic and zoomorphic figures, necklaces made from various materials like Spondylus, rhodochrosite, and chrysocolla, and lithic artifacts for daily and ceremonial use have been found.

The Peruvian Ministry of Culture has announced the opening of Peñico to national and international tourism. The site will offer basic services for visitors, including parking, a reception area, and an Information and Interpretation Center. This center will feature educational and interactive resources, such as infographics, models, dioramas, and furniture replicas, to disseminate findings and highlight the recovered heritage.

Furthermore, the first Peñico Raymi, a traditional Andean festival, is scheduled for Saturday, July 12, 2025, starting at 10:00 a.m. The event will include a payment ceremony to the Pachamama, recognition of the local population for their identification with cultural heritage, and an artistic festival.

This discovery is crucial, as experts believe Peñico emerged after the Caral civilization was devastated by climate change. Peñico's strategic location and its links with various communities reflect its role as an integrating center in Peruvian prehistory.

Sources

  • Agencia ANSA

  • Infobae

  • Peruinforma

  • Agencia Peruana de Noticias Andina

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