The World Monuments Fund (WMF) announced the discovery of over 100 archaeological structures belonging to the indigenous Chachapoya culture within the Gran Pajatén complex in Peru. This finding marks a milestone in the study of the Chachapoya civilization, offering new insights into their architectural prowess and regional influence.
The discovery more than doubles the number of known structures in the Río Abiseo National Park, which previously had only 26 documented ruins in the Gran Pajatén complex. Utilizing Lidar technology, researchers were able to identify and document these previously unknown structures, revealing a much larger and more complex site than was recorded in the 1980s.
Juan Pablo de la Puente Brunke, the World Monuments Fund representative in Peru, emphasized the importance of this discovery. "This discovery fundamentally expands our understanding of Gran Pajatén and raises new questions about the role of the site in the world of the Chachapoya," he said. "It confirms that it is not an isolated complex, but an articulated network of pre-Hispanic settlements of different periods."
Among the newly identified structures are ritual sites decorated with intricate mosaics and friezes. The Gran Pajatén complex is renowned for its ceremonial buildings adorned with stone mosaics representing human figures and high-relief friezes, which reflect the artistic achievements of the Chachapoya people.
Bénédicte de Montlaur, the president and CEO of WMF, emphasized the importance of employing modern technology in the discovery. "What makes this moment so significant is not only the magnitude of what has been discovered but also that it has been achieved using advanced technology," she declared. The use of Lidar scanning allowed archaeologists to penetrate dense vegetation and create a three-dimensional map of the region, uncovering structures that had remained hidden for centuries.
The Chachapoya, often referred to as the Cloud People or Fog Warriors, developed their culture between the 7th and 16th centuries CE in the northeastern Andes of Peru. They inhabited the slopes at altitudes between 2,000 and 3,000 meters, constructing highly developed urban centers, ceremonial platforms, funerary structures on cliffs, rock tombs, and extensive agricultural terraces. Their architectural style is distinguished by circular buildings and profusely decorated cliff burials, featuring geometric friezes.
For a long period, the Chachapoya fiercely resisted the expansion of the Inca Empire but were ultimately subdued and incorporated into it in the late 15th century, shortly before the arrival of Spanish conquerors. Despite their importance, the Chachapoya civilization was little studied in depth until a few decades ago, making recent discoveries like this one all the more critical.
The archaeological site of Gran Pajatén is located in a remote and inaccessible area on the slopes of the Andes. Many of the Chachapoya constructions are situated in rugged environments, and dense vegetation has concealed numerous structures over time. The protection of the ecosystem within the Río Abiseo National Park further restricts tourist access to Gran Pajatén, helping to preserve its untouched state.
The findings at Gran Pajatén are the result of an initiative led by the WMF office in Peru between 2022 and 2024. This project included exploration, excavation, conservation work, and documentation techniques. As a result, the WMF has now generated "the most detailed map of Gran Pajatén to date," providing an invaluable resource for ongoing and future research.
Investigations confirmed that the presence of the Chachapoya in Gran Pajatén dates back to the 14th century, with soil layer analysis suggesting an even earlier use of the site. Additionally, a nearby network of roads connecting Gran Pajatén with other important sites such as La Playa, Papayas, and Los Pinchudos was discovered, indicating a complex network of settlements and communication routes.
To share these findings and celebrate the rich heritage of the Chachapoya culture, the WMF is currently presenting a free exhibition at the Museum of Art of Lima. This exhibition provides information about the Chachapoya civilization and presents the recent discoveries, offering visitors a glimpse into the lives of the Cloud People.
Gran Pajatén, first discovered in the 1960s, is considered one of the most notable sites preserved from the Chachapoya culture. Its buildings face an imposing view of the surrounding cloud forest, embodying the Chachapoya's deep connection with their environment. The recent discoveries not only enhance our understanding of their architectural and artistic achievements but also shed light on their social organization and regional influence.
Written with the help of a news-analysis system.