Wari Culture: Ancient Astronomical Observatory Excavated In Cusco, Peru

AncientPages.com - An astronomical observatory, massive stone walls and a great variety of pottery have been revealed during excavations at Espiritu Pampa archaeological site in Southern Cusco region, Peru.

Experts believe that the structure served as an astronomical observatory for Wari's magical-religious rituals.

artifacts related to Wari Culture, Peru. Images credit: Photo: ANDINA/Difusión

Artifacts related to Wari Culture, Peru. Images credit: Photo: ANDINA/Difusión

The finds are related to pre-Hispanic Wari that flourished from about 500 AD to 1000 AD, in the region of Ayacucho region and stretched over Cusco's rainforest, in South-Andean, according to head archaeologist Javier Fonseca and State-run Decentralized Culture Directorate of Cusco (DDCC), responsible for the research.

Research works at Espiritu Pampa archaeological site in Southern Cusco/Peru. Image credit: ANDINA/Difusión

Research works at Espiritu Pampa archaeological site in Southern Cusco/Peru. Image credit: ANDINA/Difusión

The stone walls discovered at the site are part of a massive D-shaped temple and a smaller structure, which is also D-shaped, were excavated at the center of the temple, reports Andina.

See also:

Peru’s Wari Culture And Their Ancient ‘Amunas’ Will Help Peru’s Water

The team also discovered two spaces built with small stones within the temple. Tooth fragments of some sort of local animal were found in the first one; as well as two Wari style ceramic bottles, a silver chest plate, and a silver crown or headdress in the second.

Research works at Espiritu Pampa archaeological site in Southern Cusco/Peru

Research works at Espiritu Pampa archaeological site in Southern Cusco/Peru

One of the bottles features a human face with big eyes, a nose, and a mouth. But the most remarkable feature is the crown painted over its head: a sign that the area housed elite government figures during Wari's zenith.

Archaeologists also found evidence of Inca architecture with square and rectangular shapes beside the temple. One of the structures housed Inca tupus (pins), silver needles, and ceremonial pottery.

The excavations will continue.

Original story - here.

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