Archaeologists have announced the discovery of over 100 previously unknown structures at Gran Pajatén, a significant archaeological site in the Peruvian Andes. This remarkable find, located within the Río Abiseo National Park, expands our understanding of the Chachapoya civilization, also known as the "people of the cloud forest." The discovery was announced by the World Monuments Fund (WMF) in May 2025.
Unveiling a Lost Civilization
Gran Pajatén, first discovered in the 1960s, is renowned for its circular buildings, stone mosaics, and high-relief friezes. The recent findings, resulting from research conducted between 2022 and 2024, reveal a much larger and more complex settlement than previously thought. The use of advanced technologies like LiDAR scanning and photogrammetry allowed researchers to map the site in detail, revealing agricultural terraces, circular structures, and rock-cut tombs.
Significance of the Discovery
The discovery of these additional structures indicates that Gran Pajatén was a central hub within the Chachapoya network. Archaeological analysis confirms that the site was inhabited in the 14th century, with soil analysis suggesting even earlier use. The ongoing research, which has documented only 10% of the data so far, promises to uncover more about the Chachapoya people and their sophisticated society, shedding light on their architectural and artistic achievements.