Caral Historical Facts and Pictures

The large settlement in the Supe Valley, known as Caral or Caral-Supe, is located about 200 km north of the region Lima, in Peru. Inhabited roughly around 2600 BCE and 2000 BCE, it is considered as the most ancient city in the Americas.  It is also described as one of the largest and best-studied sites of Norte Chico civilization. The site was first discovered by Paul Kosok in 1948 but did not receive much attention at that time. Later archaeologist Ruth Shandy explored this ancient city of pyramids along with elaborate temples and residential houses.

Caral Map

Caral Map

Caral

Caral Images

Caral Pictures

Caral Photos

Structures and Artifacts in Caral

The structures within the complex exhibit impressive architectural designs, especially in its monumental stones, sunken circular courts and earthen platform mounts. Spreading over an area of 80 km² the site comprises about twenty pyramids across the Supe Valley. The 18-meter tall main pyramid covers a large area. The discovery of the quipu (the knot system to record information in Andean civilizations) testifies the complexity and development of Caral society. According to Professor Gary Urton, the quipus used a binary system that could record logographic data. Moreover, a collection of musical instruments is found within the site that includes 37 cornets and 33 flutes.

Caral Artifacts

Flutes at Caral

The Monolith Huanca in Caral

Caral has been remodeled several times throughout the course of history. The structural plans and its components exemplify ceremonial functions of strong religious ideologies.

Caral Pyramids

Caral Pyramids

Pyramids in Caral