Artifacts from Vichama: response to climate change
In Peru, during excavations in the ancient city of Vichama, artifacts featuring images of snakes have been discovered that may indicate the society's reaction of the Chavin culture to climate changes that occurred approximately 3800 years ago. Among the findings are two sculptures, other items with snakes, and reliefs that were previously discovered. Researchers believe that the symbolism of snakes is associated with water, fertility, transformation, and renewal of life. These findings were announced by the Ministry of Culture of Peru and the Archaeological Zone of Caral (ZAC) during events dedicated to the 19th anniversary of archaeological research in Vichama.
The ancient city of Vichama is located in Vegueta, Huaura province, north of Lima, Peru. Vichama belonged to the cultural tradition of the Chavin, which flourished approximately between 1800 and 1500 BC. The society that lived in Vichama existed nearly 3800 years ago. In the course of research in Sector D, two sculptures were discovered. The first, carved from the antlers of a young deer, is about 30 cm tall and depicts a dead anthropomorphic figure with closed eyes and mouth, which is associated with a snake-like creature. The second sculpture, measuring 6.9 cm in length and made of unburned clay, shows traces of red and black pigment; its front prominently features a snake with a triangular head. The object held beside the second sculpture may have served a ritual purpose.
Significance of the findings for modernity
Additionally, other items featuring snakes were found in public buildings and residential areas of Vichama. Some of these items were likely left as offerings during architectural reconstructions. Throughout the 19 years of research in the main public building (Sector A), 34 anthropomorphic and fish-like reliefs have been discovered. The reliefs of Sector A are part of the composition 'Mural of the Dance of Life and Death'. In Sector K, archaeologists found a 'Fertility Frieze' depicting two snakes coiling around a central figure, which is interpreted as anthropomorphized seeds.
“The society of Vichama left behind reliefs depicting the impact of climate change 3800 years ago, to remember what occurred and how to prevent this from happening again. The message we receive is as follows: we must reflect. But how? By understanding history and, relying on this understanding, contemplating what changes we need to promote.”
Dr. Ruth Shedy Solis, head of the archaeological zone of Caral
The Minister of Culture of Peru, Alberto Beguelin Delgado, was present at the presentation of the findings. It should be noted that previously in Huaca Pucllana in Lima, archaeologists uncovered human remains approximately 1400 years old. The remains found in Huaca Pucllana belong to an adult individual, likely male; there is a possibility that they were deliberately sacrificed during a ceremony to close an underground channel connected to a ceremonial well.
The discovery of artifacts in Vichama is significant for understanding the socio-cultural context of ancient civilizations in Peru, particularly their reaction to environmental changes. The symbolism of snakes indicates a deep connection between nature and the religious beliefs of society, as well as their desire for adaptation in the face of climate changes. These findings could serve as an important lesson for modern societies facing similar challenges.
In the context of archaeological discoveries in Peru, it's intriguing to note another significant finding: a 1400-year-old ritual burial unearthed in the capital. This discovery sheds light on the ancient practices and cultural significance of death rituals in Peruvian societies. Such insights not only enhance our understanding of the region's history but also highlight the ongoing research that continues to reveal the complexities of ancient life. For more details on this remarkable find, check out the full story about the ancient burial site in Peru.