Here’s what you’ll uncover in this article:
- Archaeologists have found a newly unearthed observatory in Peru that predates what was thought to be the oldest one in the Americas.
- This discovery in Casma Valley could be far older than the previous record-holder.
- These findings reveal that ancient civilizations had a deeper understanding of astrology than once believed.
It turns out that observing celestial bodies in the past was a lot more nuanced than we’d give credit for. Thanks to a recent update from a renowned astrological site located on the north-central coast of Peru, we’re diving deeper into the complexity of these ancient practices.
The Chankillo Archaeoastronomical Complex has long held the title of the oldest observatory in the Americas—and the countdown is on to see if that title still stands, given this exciting new find.
A statement from the Peruvian Ministry of Culture reveals that they’ve discovered something even older than the well-known Chankillo Solar Observatory, which dates back to around 250 B.C.E. and is classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
While the research team plans to conduct radiocarbon dating to nail down the exact age of this new evidence—found in the breathtaking Andes Mountains—archaeologists believe, thanks to factors like solar orientation and materials used, that it very likely had an accompanying astronomical role that may have existed several centuries before the Chankillo Solar Observatory.
The ministry stated that the existence of these observatories only strengthens Casma’s importance as one of the leading ancient astronomical hubs in the world.
The UNESCO site contains the remarkable Chankillo Solar Observatory, distinguished by its 13-tower setup and a triple-walled hilltop complex identified as the Fortified Temple.
UNESCO highlighted the Chankillo Solar Observatory’s brilliance in its design, utilizing the solar cycle and an artificial horizon to meticulously mark solstices, equinoxes, and significant days throughout the year with an impressive accuracy of one to two days. This illustrates the evolving history of astronomical knowledge in the Casma Valley.
The new discovery boasts a corridor that aligns with the lunar cycle, revealing a sophisticated dual-purpose design that accommodated both solar and lunar observations. This means that ancient astronomers here might have possessed insights into the cosmos that far exceed prior assumptions.
Archaeologists have also found a Patazca-style ceremonial vessel within this exciting new discovery. Standing around three feet tall and adorned with clay figures depicting warriors in battle poses, this vessel signals that influential cultural figures were likely hands-on with initiatives at the complex, potentially merging advances in astronomy with military power. This discovery promises to change how we see the political and ritual significance of the Fortified Temple and expands our understanding of how ancient cultures related to the cosmos.
