The Peruvian Ministry of Culture has announced the discovery of an early Andean structure that predates the Chankillo solar observatory, long considered the earliest known observatory in the Americas.
The structure was uncovered during ongoing archaeological excavations at the Chankillo Archaeoastronomical Complex, situated within the Casma river valley in Ancash, Peru,
The region encompassing the Casma River and its tributary, the Sechin River, contains a high concentration of ancient ruins associated with the Casma–Sechin culture (c. 2000–1000 BC), renowned for possessing some of the oldest monumental architecture in the Americas.
According to an official press statement issued by the Peruvian State, the structure exhibits a clear solar orientation, indicating it was purposely engineered for observing celestial movements.
While preliminary dating of the structure relies on stratigraphy and construction materials, impending radiocarbon dating is anticipated to significantly extend the established timeline of architectural planning for astronomical systems in pre-Hispanic Peru.
Furthermore, excavations revealed a corridor specifically aligned with the lunar cycle. This intentional design feature suggests that the ancient inhabitants of Chankillo observed not only the sun’s annual passage but also the more complex rhythms of the moon.
 |
| Image Credit : Peruvian State |
“These discoveries solidify Casma’s position as one of the world’s most important ancient astronomical centres. The Ministry of Culture continues its restoration and enhancement work on the Thirteen Towers and the Solar Observatory, with the objective of opening this section of the site to the general public in the coming years,” stated the Ministry of Culture.