Archaeologists have made an exciting discovery in Peru's northern Barranca province: the ancient city of Peñico, estimated to be 3,500 years old. This lost city is believed to have acted as a major trading center, connecting Pacific coast communities with those living in the Andes and the Amazon region. Located about 200 km north of Lima at an elevation of 600 meters (1,970 feet), Peñico is thought to have been founded between 1,800 and 1,500 BC, coinciding with the rise of early civilizations around the world.
Drones have captured stunning aerial views showing circular structures central to the site, alongside ruins made from stone and mud. Researchers have spent eight years excavating Peñico, uncovering 18 structures that include ceremonial temples and residential areas. Among the finds are ceremonial objects, clay statues, and intricate bead-and-shell necklaces.
This discovery is particularly significant as it informs our understanding of the fate of Caral, the oldest known civilization in the Americas, founded about 5,000 years ago. Dr. Ruth Shady, the archaeologist leading the recent explorations, stated that Peñico was strategically positioned for trade, strengthening connections between diverse societies across the region. Marco Machacuay, a researcher from the Ministry of Culture, emphasized that Peñico represents a continuation of the Caral societal legacy, crucial for understanding Peru’s rich archaeological history, which also includes iconic sites like Machu Picchu and the Nazca Lines.
