Discovery of 3,500-Year-Old Peruvian City Reveals Ancient Trade Links

LIMA, Peru – On July 3, 2025, archaeologists announced the discovery of Peñico, a 3,500-year-old city located in the northern Barranca province of Peru. This ancient urban center is believed to have served as a critical trading hub, connecting the cultures of the Pacific coast with those in the Andes and the Amazon. The site flourished during a time paralleling the emergence of early civilizations in regions such as the Middle East and Asia.

The archaeological team, led by Ruth Shady, an esteemed archaeologist from the National University of San Marcos, stated that Peñico was established between 1800 and 1500 BC, shortly after the decline of the Caral civilization, which is recognized as the oldest known civilization in the Americas, dating back over 5,000 years. The Caral civilization, characterized by its monumental structures, developed in isolation compared to its contemporaries in Egypt, India, and Sumeria.

Drone footage released by the researchers highlights the city's distinctive circular structure situated on a hillside terrace, alongside remains of stone and mud buildings located approximately 600 meters (1,970 feet) above sea level. According to Shady, the discovery of Peñico is particularly significant due to its strategic location for trade and cultural exchange with nearby societies.

"The city represents a continuation of the Caral society, adapting to the environmental changes that had devastated its predecessor," Shady explained during a press conference. She emphasized that Peñico's urban layout and structures reveal insights into the social and economic dynamics of ancient Peruvian cultures.

Marco Machacuay, an archaeologist affiliated with Peru's Ministry of Culture, corroborated Shady's findings, indicating that after eight years of excavation and analysis, researchers have identified up to 18 distinct structures within Peñico. These include ceremonial temples and residential complexes, alongside a central plaza adorned with sculptural reliefs depicting the pututu, an ancient conch shell trumpet used for communication over long distances.

The excavations also unearthed clay sculptures representing both human and animal figures, ceremonial artifacts, and intricate necklaces crafted from beads and seashells, underscoring the cultural richness and artistic achievements of the inhabitants of Peñico.

Peru is globally recognized for its diverse archaeological heritage, prominently featuring sites such as Machu Picchu and the Nazca Lines, which attract researchers and tourists alike. The unveiling of Peñico not only adds to the country's historical narrative but also raises questions about the socio-political structures and trading practices of ancient civilizations in the region.

As archaeologists continue to explore the remnants of Peñico, they anticipate uncovering further evidence that will elucidate the interconnectedness of ancient cultures across the Americas. The findings from Peñico may offer valuable lessons on resilience and adaptation in the face of environmental challenges, a theme that remains relevant in today's discussions about climate change and its impact on societies.