Sep 27, 2024, 12:00 AM
Sep 27, 2024, 12:00 AM

Vehicles damage ancient geoglyphs in Atacama Desert, Chile

Provocative
Highlights
  • The Atacama Desert Foundation reported significant damage to the Alto Barranco geoglyphs due to motorized vehicles.
  • These ancient geoglyphs, created over 1,000 years ago, are crucial for navigation in the desert and are facing irreversible destruction.
  • Authorities emphasize the need for improved protective measures and public awareness to preserve these unique cultural heritage sites.
Story

In early September, the Atacama Desert Foundation highlighted the severe damage caused by motorized vehicles to the Alto Barranco geoglyphs in northern Chile. These ancient designs, created by pre-Hispanic Andean peoples over 1,000 years ago, are being eroded by the increasing traffic of jeeps, motorbikes, and ATVs. Gonzalo Pimentel, director of the foundation, noted that the destruction has been ongoing for decades and is now escalating due to both vehicular traffic and mining activities in the region. The geoglyphs, which date back between 3,000 and 1,000 years, serve as a form of cartography, depicting important landmarks for navigation in the harsh desert environment. Marcela Sepúlveda, president of the Chilean Society of Archeology, emphasized the cultural significance of these sites, which are unique to the Atacama Desert and reflect the ingenuity of ancient communities. Despite existing protections under the National Monuments Law, many geoglyphs lack specific conservation projects, leaving them vulnerable to ongoing damage. Pimentel expressed concern that most of the harm is irreversible, and while restoration techniques exist, the extent of the destruction makes it nearly impossible to restore the geoglyphs to their original state. Authorities, including Chile’s Minister of National Assets, have acknowledged the need for better enforcement of protective measures and public education to raise awareness about the importance of preserving these archaeological treasures. The situation at Alto Barranco exemplifies a broader issue of heritage site protection in Chile, where ignorance and lack of compliance with laws contribute to the ongoing degradation of invaluable cultural resources.

Opinions

You've reached the end