Overview
- Peñico, founded around 1800–1500 BC in Barranca Province, occupies a hillside about 200 km north of Lima at 600 meters above sea level.
- Eight years of excavations revealed 18 structures, including ceremonial temples, residential complexes and a drone-mapped circular plaza.
- Archaeologists recovered ceremonial objects, clay sculptures of human and animal figures and necklaces made from beads and marine shells.
- Leading researchers view Peñico as a continuation of the earlier Caral civilization, offering new insights into cultural resilience in the face of ancient climate change.
- Ministry of Culture teams are installing informational panels, interactive displays and drone-imaging kiosks ahead of the July 12 public inauguration.