More than 100 new patterns discovered in and around Peru’s ancient Nazca Plain and surrounding regions could shed new light on mysterious pre-Columbian artwork that has intrigued scientists and visitors for decades.
After two years of field investigations with aerial photos and drones, Peruvian and Japanese research from the University of Yamagata reported earlier this month the discovery of 168 new models at the World Heritage site of the on the south Pacific coast of Peru.
The geoglyphs, huge figures carved in the South American desert, date back over 2,000 years and depict humans, cats, snakes, killer whales, birds and native camelids – animals such as llamas, guanacos and alpacas.
Jorge Olano, chief archaeologist of the Nazca Lines research program, said the newly discovered figures average between 2 and 6 meters (6.56 to 19.7 feet) in length. The purpose of the Nazca Lines, which could only be seen from the air, remains a mystery.
This month’s results, however, are smaller and can be seen from the ground, Masato Sakai, a Yamagata University professor who led the study, told Reuters.
The figures, iconic relics of Peru’s rich history, are about a three-hour drive from the capital, Lima.
Researchers had already discovered 190 figures in the area since 2004. But the vastness of the ground they cover has complicated efforts to study and conserve the heritage site.
Yamagata University said the research will be used in artificial intelligence-based surveys to help inform line preservation.
Studies by the university in collaboration with the Peruvian government have helped delimit and protect the area, which is threatened by urban and economic developments.
“Some geoglyphs are at risk of being destroyed due to the recent expansion of mining-related workshops in the archaeological park,” Sakai said.
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