Peñico Emerges as Peru’s Archaeological Crown Jewel
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Nestled in the Supe Valley of Peru’s Lima region, just 12 km from Caral, lies Peñico — a city dating back 3800 years (circa 1800‒1500 BC), recently uncovered and opened to the public after eight years of excavation led by archaeologist Ruth Shady. Dubbed the “City of Social Integration”, Peñico rewrites narratives about early civilizations in the Americas and offers a vital link between prehistoric urban centers. 1. Historical Context: From Caral to Peñico The Legacy of Caral–Supe Civilization The Caral–Supe civilization, also known simply as Caral or Norte Chico, is recognized as the oldest known urban society in the Americas, thriving from around 3500 BC until about 1800 BC. It featured monumental architecture, advanced agricultural systems, and resource trade networks. Caral’s Decline and the Rise of Peñico After Caral’s decline — likely due to climate upheavals like droughts and floods — Peñico emerged, carrying forward Caral’s sophistication while forging its own identity. Establi...