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Nazca: The civilization in the middle of the desert.

15/10/2024 5:11 pm

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The Nazca Culture stands as one of the most fascinating and enigmatic ancient civilizations of Peru. Flourishing between 200 BC and 800 AD, it developed along Peru’s southern coast in the Nazca valleys and surrounding regions. Known for impressive hydraulic engineering, exceptional artistry, and especially for the Nazca Lines, this culture continues to captivate researchers today.

 

Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines remain the most iconic feature of this civilization. These enormous geoglyphs, etched into the desert floor, depict geometric shapes, animals, and abstract forms. Fully visible only from above, the lines stretch across an area of about 450 km².

Some of the most well-known figures include:

– The Hummingbird

– The Monkey

– The Spider

– The Astronaut

– The Dog

 

The reasons behind the creation of these lines are still not fully understood. It is believed they may have had religious, astronomical, or ceremonial purposes, possibly related to a water cult, which was vital in the desert where they lived. Some scholars suggest the lines might have been ritual paths or designs to invoke rain or mark the solstices.

Hydraulic Engineering

Another remarkable achievement of the Nazca people lies in their mastery of hydraulic engineering. To survive in one of the driest regions on Earth, they developed underground aqueduct systems known as puquios. These aqueducts tapped into groundwater, supplying both agricultural fields and urban areas

 

Art and Pottery

The Nazca culture is renowned for its vibrant polychrome pottery, among the most advanced in ancient Peru. Decorated with intricate designs, these pots and vessels display human figures, animals, plants, and mythological beings in a wide array of colors.

Likely used in rituals and funerals, these ceramics offer insights into Nazca religious and social life, as many figures on the pottery reflect their beliefs about the natural and spiritual realms.

 

Religion and Rituals

The Nazca religion deeply honored nature, particularly water cycles and fertility. Scholars believe the Nazca people performed rituals to secure rainfall. Many of the geoglyphs, such as the hummingbird and spider, symbolize water-related myths and deities.

Their funerary practices were elaborate, involving large tombs, mummification, and valuable grave goods, including pottery and textiles. Archaeologists have found evidence of human sacrifices, possibly as offerings to ensure fertile lands and please the gods.

Textiles

In addition to pottery, the Nazca were experts in textile production. They used cotton and fibers from camelids (such as alpaca or llama) to weave garments that were also decorated with intricate geometric and zoomorphic designs. As with the pottery, the textiles had deep symbolic and religious meaning.

 

Social Organization

The Nazca society was composed of a hierarchy with religious and political leaders who likely controlled the distribution of resources, especially water. The villages were small and scattered, but they were organized around ceremonial centers where ritual and social activities took place.

 

Decline and Fall

Despite its disappearance, the influence of the Nazca Culture endures through its impressive achievements in engineering, art, and its cultural legacy. The Nazca Lines were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1994, and they continue to attract thousands of tourists and scientists from around the world who seek to unravel their mystery.

 

If you want to visit and get to know this amazing culture in person check our tours: Peru 10 Days  and Peru 15 Days!

We hope you learned a bit more about this amazing culture!

Thanks for reading!

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