Archaeologists Discover 303 New Geoglyphs Near Nazca Lines
- Archaeologists have discovered 303 new geoglyphs near the Nazca Lines in Peru, dating back to 200 BCE.
- The use of artificial intelligence and drones significantly accelerated the discovery process, allowing researchers to identify smaller geoglyphs that were previously undetectable.
- This find nearly doubles the number of known geoglyphs and provides new insights into the cultural transition from the Paracas to the Nazca civilization.
In a groundbreaking discovery, archaeologists have identified 303 new geoglyphs near the Nazca Lines in Peru, dating back to 200 BCE. This significant find was made possible through the collaboration of the Japanese University of Yamagata’s Nazca Institute and IBM Research, utilizing advanced artificial intelligence and drone technology to map the area more efficiently. The newly discovered figures include depictions of animals and humans, which are notably smaller than the iconic geometric patterns created by the Nazca civilization between AD 200 and 700. The application of AI allowed researchers to analyze vast amounts of geospatial data, leading to the identification of these smaller relief-type geoglyphs that had previously gone unnoticed. The speed of discovery was remarkable; while it took nearly a century to find 430 figurative Nazca geoglyphs, the new technology enabled the identification of 303 new figures in just six months. This rapid advancement in archaeological methods represents a significant leap forward in the field. The newly discovered geoglyphs differ in meaning and purpose from the larger Nazca figures, which were primarily created for religious or ritualistic purposes. The smaller geoglyphs likely depict scenes from everyday life and may have served as markers for family or kinship groups. This distinction provides valuable insights into the cultural practices of the Paracas and Nazca civilizations. Overall, this discovery not only enriches the understanding of the Nazca Lines but also highlights the transformative impact of technology in archaeological research, paving the way for future explorations in the region.