The Chavin de Huantar site, located approximately 190 miles (306 km) northeast of Lima, was a significant center for the Chavin culture between 1,500-550 B.C. Known for their advanced artistry featuring bird and feline depictions, the Chavin were among the earliest sedentary farming communities in the Peruvian Andes, existing over 2,000 years before the Inca Empire.
The recently discovered corridor within the southern portion of the temple complex provides a unique glimpse into the early days of the Chavin culture. Sealed off due to structural weakness, it has remained preserved over time. Archaeologist John Rick, leading the excavation, described the find as a frozen moment in history.
Among the artifacts found within the passageway is a large ceramic piece weighing 37 pounds (17 kg), adorned with what appears to be the head and wings of a condor, a symbol associated with power and prosperity in ancient Andean civilizations. A ceramic bowl was also unearthed during the excavation in May 2022 when the entrance was uncovered.
The temple complex itself features terraces and a network of passageways, some of which have only recently been discovered. Rick, an archaeologist from Stanford University, believes there is still much more to uncover within the temple complex.
To explore the “condor’s passageway,” Rick’s team used robots equipped with cameras to navigate the debris and ensure the preservation of the ancient architecture without risking collapse.
Recognizing its cultural significance, UNESCO declared Chavin de Huantar a world heritage site in 1985, acknowledging its historical and archaeological importance.
Source: www.natureworldnews.com
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