The Precursors of the Inca (2004)
Beyond the grandeur of the Inca Empire, there lies a captivating history of lesser-known civilizations that flourished before being overshadowed by time and the splendor of their successors. The Precursors of the Inca takes us on an archaeological journey, unraveling the mysteries of these brilliant cultures.
- Tiahuanaco Culture:
- In the high plateau region, we explore the ceremonial centers of the Tiahuanaco culture, which thrived around the sixth century AD. Enigmatic sculptures and architectural forms continue to baffle archaeologists. Shamans still perform mystical sun-worship rituals here.
- Chimu Civilization:
- Along the arid Peruvian coast, the Chimu culture left its mark. They built hundreds of canals for irrigation, sustaining their civilization. The pinnacle of their achievements was the city of Chan-Chan, once the most populous city globally, with 100,000 inhabitants. We discover their ties to the Peru Current, including the use of “reed horses” for fishing.
- Moche Remnants:
- Evidence of human sacrifice and complex mummification techniques emerges from the remnants of the Moche civilization. Polychrome reliefs adorn their walls, revealing their intricate culture.
- Pampa del Ingenio:
- Carved into the floor, the lines and drawings on the Pampa del Ingenio constitute the world’s largest astronomical book. These geoglyphs mark significant celestial events.
- Lord of Sipan’s Tomb:
- Finally, we delve into the most significant discovery of recent times: the tomb of the Lord of Sipan. Archaeologist Walter Alba shares insights into this remarkable find.
The Precursors of the Inca unveils the forgotten legacies, connecting us to the rich tapestry of ancient civilizations that once thrived across the Andean landscape.
