Archaeologists in Peru have discovered a ceremonial temple dating back approximately 5,000 years in the Los Paredones archaeological complex in the Zaña Valley. This significant discovery sheds light on the early religious practices of ancient Andean cultures.
The excavation, which began in June 2024, revealed the remains of a multi-story temple constructed from rammed earth. The walls are adorned with friezes depicting human figures with bird heads, feline features, and reptilian claws, covered in thin plaster with painted patterns. A central staircase leads to a raised stage, likely used for ritual performances.
Inside the temple walls, archaeologists found the remains of three adults buried with ceremonial offerings wrapped in fabric. Radiocarbon dating is still ongoing, but preliminary data supports the structure's age of 5,000 years. This suggests the presence of complex religious systems in the region much earlier than previously thought.
Director of the archaeological project Luis Armando Muro Iñoñán notes that the temple likely served as a center for public and religious ceremonies, reflecting a deep understanding of architecture and the spiritual life of ancient Andean societies. The remains and artifacts provide a unique insight into the culture and religion of that time.
This discovery is of great significance for studying the early civilizations of Peru and their religious practices, and it also underlines the importance of protecting and preserving cultural heritage in the region, given the threats of looting of archaeological sites.