zoom_in Click to enlarge

Caral

▲ ▼

language

description Caral Overview

Caral is an extensive archaeological site in the Supe Valley of Peru, dating back to approximately 2600 BCE, making it the oldest known urban center in the Americas. It was the capital of the Norte Chico civilization, a complex society distinguished by its large stepped pyramids, sunken circular plazas, and lack of pottery or defensive structures. Archaeological discoveries indicate the society used quipus, knotted string devices, for record-keeping. The site provides vital evidence for understanding the independent development of early complex societies in South America.

help Caral FAQ

Where is Caral located?

Caral is in the Supe Valley on Peru's central coast. The site contains monumental architecture, including stepped pyramids and large sunken circular plazas.

How old is Caral?

Caral dates to approximately 2600 BCE, making it one of the earliest known urban centers in the Americas. It was part of the Norte Chico, or Caral-Supe, civilization.

What did the people of Caral build?

They built large platform mounds, stepped pyramids, residential areas, and sunken circular plazas. The scale of the architecture shows that the settlement supported organized labor and complex administration.

Did archaeologists find evidence of warfare at Caral?

Caral is notable for monumental construction and a relative lack of obvious defensive walls or weapon-focused architecture. Archaeologists often discuss it as an early complex society whose organization was not centered on fortifications.

swap_horiz

Looking for Caral alternatives? Compare top competitors ranked & scored

arrow_forward