Caral Site

Lying in the arid desert region 14 miles from the coast and 120 miles north of Lima, Peru, is the archaeological site of Caral. Scientists believe that this city, a complex of plazas, residential buildings and pyramids, was already thriving at the time that the Egyptians were building the Great Pyramids. Although Caral was first discovered in 1909, it was not until 1996 that Peruvian archaeologist Ruth Shady Solis began the excavation of the largest of the pyramids, one of six at this site. In 2001, researchers carbon-dated material from the site to 2,627 B.C.

The Caral site is notable in regards to its design. The complex consists of a central area with six large platform mounds situated around a huge plaza. The largest mound, the Greater Pyramid, measures 60 feet high, and 450 feet by 500 feet

at the base. These public buildings have rooms, stairs, and courtyards. Archaeologists found walls decorated with small figures and colored plaster. Remains of offerings were found in Three sunken plazas are an indication of society-wide religion.

Around the perimeter of Caral archaeologists found several smaller mounds, residential complexes and other buildings.

There seemed to be a hierarchy in the living arrangements. The large, well-kept rooms were near the top of the pyramid and housed the elite, while the ground-level rooms housed the artisans. Outlying shabbier complexes housed the workers.

One of the most intriguing findings on this site is that of quipu, an early means of communication. This is a system of knots and string wound around sticks used to record information. If the dating of these items is correct, it suggests that Caral may represent the earliest known settlement in the Americas. During the excavations, scientists also discovered 32 flutes made of condor and pelican bones. Other excavations produced 37 cornets made from llama and deer bones. Due to these findings, scientists believe that music played an important role in the society.

Another unique finding on the site is the stone monolith known as Huanca, which means standing stone. It is 2.15 meters high, and stands due north of the Huanca pyramid. Scientists believe that it was used in ceremonial and astronomical celebrations in

Caral.

Unfortunately, around 1600 B.C., the Caral civilization disappeared, although it did not happen overnight. Scientists believe that the center of power shifted slowly to other areas, giving those from Caral the time to bury their most treasured structures to be found in the future. Although this city does not thrive today, many still believe that it was the origin of the Incan civilization.