Conny Waters – AncientPages.com – The Ministry of Culture of Peru, in collaboration with archaeologists from the Caral Archaeological Zone (ZAC), has announced the archaeological findings from 18 years of dedicated research, conservation, and dissemination efforts at the ancient site of the agricultural city, Vichama, located in the Végueta district, Huaura province.
Image credit: Peru Ministry of Culture
Vichama was a historical site associated with the Caral civilization (also known as the Caral-Supe civilization), one of the earliest known civilizations in history.
The extensive work of all engaged archaeologists and researchers aims to preserve the rich history and cultural heritage of the site and the entire country.
One of the most significant discoveries at the Vichama site is a dual representation of toads crafted from uncooked clay.
This Andean symbol is associated with the arrival of the rainy season, water availability, and the renewal of life. This imagery complements the mural reliefs found at Vichama, which depict stories of scarcity and hope amidst environmental challenges brought about by climate change experienced by the Caral civilization.
In ancient Andean cultures, the toad was a significant symbol representing water, essential for agriculture, and the natural cycle of rebirth. These figures often played a crucial role in ceremonies that attempt to invoke rain and rejuvenate farmland after periods of drought.
Image credit: Peru Ministry of Culture
The team also unearthed two models of uncooked clay that represent buildings of Vichama, evidence of the society’s technical knowledge and urban planning skills. Additionally, the models could represent prototypes of structures planned for construction or serve as part of rituals.
Researchers have discovered fragments of friezes that were integral to significant mural compositions, offering insights into the artistic and symbolic expressions crafted by the city’s inhabitants. This advanced society’s legacy serves an essential purpose: it acts as a cautionary message to future generations about the potential impacts of climate change.
Dr. Shady Solís recalled the fascinating discoveries made in previous years at the Main Building (Sector A). One of them was the monumental composition known as “The Dance of Death and Life,” featuring 34 mural reliefs depicting deceased adult bodies with distinct ribs and closed eyes, accompanied by youthful figures engaged in a ritual dance alongside two large fish.
This captivating artwork offers profound insights into ancient cultural expressions. Furthermore, at a later stage within the same building, an intriguing toad face was modeled on a wall, emerging with human hands and accompanied by a geometric, lightning-shaped figure called the Humanized Sage.
The Caral civilization flourished from about 3500 to 1800 BCE and is regarded as the earliest known civilization in the Americas. Its advancements in architecture, social organization, and ritual practice far exceeded many of its contemporaries.
As part of this network, Vichama demonstrates how early societies consciously built cities and used symbolic art to strengthen their communities during times of crisis.
Source
Written by Conny Waters – AncientPages.com Staff Writer
