Archaeological Site of Chanquillo | Ancash

The Archaeological Site of Chanquillo | Ancash is an archaeological complex located in the province of Huari, in the region of Ancash, Peru. It is recognized for being one of the earliest known astronomical and urban centers in America, dating from the late preceramic period (around 1200-200 BC).

Chanquillo is known for its solar observatory, which consists of stone structures that track the movement of the sun throughout the year. These structures, like towers and walls, are strategically placed to mark the solstices and equinoxes, indicating a possible connection to the agricultural calendar. The site also includes circular and rectangular buildings that served both residential and ceremonial purposes. Chanquillo is an important archaeological site that offers insight into the ancient civilizations that lived in the Andean region of Peru.

What is the importance of the archaeological vestige of Chankillo?

The archaeological site of Chankillo is of great importance for several reasons:

Oldest solar observatory in the Americas: Chankillo houses the oldest known solar observatory in the Americas, dating to approximately 300 to 200 BC. The layout of the structures at Chankillo made it possible to observe the movement of the sun throughout the year, marking the solstices and equinoxes. This discovery is crucial to understanding how ancient Andean civilizations understood and tracked the passage of time and agricultural cycles.
Early development of astronomy: The presence of a solar observatory at Chankillo indicates a high level of astronomical and mathematical knowledge on the part of the pre-Incan cultures that built it. This suggests that these civilizations were developing astronomical observation systems much earlier than previously thought.
Social organization and urban planning: The construction of the solar observatory at Chankillo required advanced urban planning and complex social organization. This suggests the presence of a structured and sophisticated society capable of carrying out large-scale projects and with a deep understanding of astronomy.
Cultural Heritage: Chankillo is part of Peru’s rich cultural heritage and represents a tangible testimony of the ancient civilizations that inhabited the Andean region. Its preservation and study are fundamental to understand the history and culture of the region, as well as to promote the conservation of the archaeological heritage.

How to get there?

Traveling to Ancash: First, you will need to get to the Ancash region of Peru. The most common way to do this is to fly into the Comandante FAP German Arias Graziani International Airport in the city of Huaraz, the capital of the region. You can also travel by bus from Lima or other major cities in Peru.
Transportation to the Chankillo area: From Huaraz or another nearby city, you can take a bus, colectivo or cab to the city closest to the archaeological site. You will probably need to get to the city of Casma, which is relatively close to Chankillo.
Travel from Casma to Chankillo: Once in Casma, you can take a cab, hire a guided tour or use public transportation (if available) to get to the archaeological site of Chankillo. You may need to arrange transportation in advance, as Chankillo can be a bit far from urban areas and may not be as easy to access without a prior plan.
Walking to the site: Once in the vicinity of Chankillo, you may need to walk a short distance to reach the archaeological site itself. Be sure to bring water, sunscreen and comfortable walking clothes, as the weather can be hot and the terrain can be uneven.

It is also important to research and plan ahead for your trip to Chankillo, as it can be a remote destination and there may not be much tourist infrastructure in the area. You may also consider hiring a local guide to get additional information about the archaeological site and make sure you get the most out of your visit..

Recommendations:

Prior research: Before your trip, research the history and archaeological significance of Chankillo. This will allow you to better appreciate the site during your visit and understand its cultural and historical significance.
Trip planning: Be sure to plan your trip in advance, including transportation from your place of origin to Chankillo, as well as lodging and any other logistical details you may need. Keep in mind that you may need to arrange local transportation from the nearest town to the archaeological site.
Appropriate clothing and equipment: Bring comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking, as well as sun protection and insect repellent. The weather in the region can be hot and sunny, so make sure you are prepared for the weather conditions.
Water and food: Bring enough drinking water and some light snacks to keep your energy up during your visit. You may not find many food options near the archaeological site, so it is best to bring something with you.
Respect the site: Respect the rules and regulations of the archaeological site, as well as the environment and local culture. Do not damage ancient structures and follow the directions of local guides or site staff.
Interact with the community: If you have the opportunity, interact with the local community and learn about their culture and lifestyle. This can enrich your experience and help you better understand the history and life in the region.
Safety: Stay safe during your visit, especially if you are exploring remote areas or hiking around Chankillo. Follow the safety recommendations and avoid taking unnecessary risks.