Archaeologists Unearth
3,000-Year-Old Prehistoric Mural in Northern Peru Lima, 23 Jul (ONA) — A team of
archaeologists has uncovered a remarkably preserved 3,000-year-old mural in
northern Peru, offering new insights into the region’s ancient civilizations.
The discovery was made at a previously unexplored archaeological site in the La
Libertad region. Measuring over five meters in length and two meters in height,
the polychrome mural features intricate depictions of marine life, including
fish and fishing nets, alongside celestial symbols and native plants. Its
vibrant pigments have retained surprising clarity despite millennia of
exposure. “This mural displays
entirely unique iconography in Peruvian archaeology,” said Dr. Ana Cecilia
Mauricio, lead archaeologist from the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru.
“The stylistic elements suggest it was created by a pre-Columbian culture
predating the Spanish colonial era by nearly two millennia. We’ve found nothing
comparable in previous excavations.” The discovery challenges previous assumptions about early
artistic development in the region. Carbon dating of organic materials found
near the mural confirms its origin between 1200-900 BCE, contemporaneous with
the early Cupisnique culture known for its ceramic traditions. Cultural historians note the mural’s marine motifs may indicate
coastal trade networks or spiritual beliefs tied to the Pacific Ocean, located
just 50 kilometers from the site. Peru’s Ministry of Culture has dispatched
conservation specialists to protect the fragile artwork, which they describe as
“one of the most significant archaeological finds of the decade.” The research team continues excavations at the site, where
they’ve identified potential ceremonial structures that may yield additional
artifacts. The Peruvian government plans to include the discovery in its UNESCO
World Heritage Site nomination for the region’s archaeological treasures.

— Ends/Khalid