CARAL
Caral is the oldest civilization in the Americas and one of the oldest in the world. It developed in present-day
Peru, in the Supe Valley, about 200 km north of Lima. Its antiquity dates back approximately 5,000 years
(around 3000 BC), and it is contemporary with other ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Mesopotamia.
Main characteristics:
1. Sacred City of Caral: This is the main archaeological site, with pyramids, circular plazas, and planned
urban structures.
2. Organized society: It had a hierarchical and centralized structure, but no evidence of weapons or warfare
has been found, suggesting a peaceful culture.
3. Scientific advances: They developed knowledge in architecture, agriculture (with irrigation systems),
astronomy, and music (flutes and drums have been found).
4. Economy: Based on agriculture (cotton, squash, beans) and fishing, taking advantage of the resources of
the coast and valley.
5. Trade: They maintained trade networks with other regions of the Andes and the Peruvian coast.
Importance:
Caral is considered the cradle of Andean civilization, and its discovery has changed the way we think about the
origins of pre-Columbian cultures. It was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2009.