The archeological site of Caral, 182 km north of Lima, Peru is thought to be the oldest city in the America’s and thought to be as many as 5,000 years old and existed around the same time as the civilizations of Egypt and Mesopotamia.
The Caral-Supe civilization arose in North Central Peru around 3000BC and lasted for almost 3000 years before being absorbed by the Chavin culture which flourished in this region for some time after.
Unlike the civilizations in Europe and Asia, which were bale to share knowledge with one another, Caral developed in complete isolation which makes it even more incredible.
They grew cotton for clothes and fishing nets. Trade existed between fishing and farming communities. They developed agricultural canals. Goods were unequally distributed signifying a hierarchical society. Elements of astronomy, geometry, medicine, and religion have all been linked to the civilization. Weapons of any sort have yet to be discovered; therefore archeologists have concluded it was a peaceful society based on commerce. A surplus of food from the combination of agricultural and fishing success most likely directly contributed to available time and effort to put to religious ceremony and the building of the pyramids.
Discovered in 1948, the site is disproving all theories of how long ago the America’s have been inhabited. This is an advanced civilization way before the Aztecs, Mayas and Incas. It covers an area of approximately 66 hectares (150 acres). The Caral site is one of 18 in the Supe valley, although it seems to be the largest and most sophisticated.
Much of the site is still being excavated and consists of a handful of stone pyramids and plazas, most of which are still being reconstructed The largest pyramid, Pyramid Mayor covers about 4 football fields and is 18 meters high. It took more than 10 years to reconstruct. Various artifacts such as flutes, tools, and reed bags have been found at the site, as well as some pieces left from the Incas who must have visited the site many years after the civilization had disappeared.
Getting there: This isn’t easy. The best way is by private tour from Lima which are not all that frequent. If you have your own transportation you can drive, however, a 4x4 is recommended as the last 25 km are on a rough and rocky road that is often flooded. The marked turn off is just before Barranca.
Admission: 20 soles and a guide is required.
Open: daily 9am-5pm
For more information visit: www.caralperu.gob.pe
