Discovered: Ancient 4,000-year-old Mural in Peru, Pre-dating the Inca Empire by Thousands of Years

In the La Libertad region of Peru, a remarkable discovery has been made that sheds light on the ancient coastal civilizations of the area. Ana Cecilia Mauricio, an archaeologist at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru, unearthed a 6-meter-long, 2.9-meter-tall polychrome mural. This stunning artwork, painted in red, yellow, blue, and black and sculpted in three-dimensional relief, adorns the inner walls of a ceremonial courtyard at Huaca Yolanda.

The mural, dating back between 3,000 and 4,000 years, is one of the earliest examples of monumental temple art in the Americas. It depicts a coastal worldview shaped by the sea's resources and the stars, in stark contrast to the jungle predators featured in Chavín murals. This discovery suggests that coastal regions may have been the origin or co-evolution point of traditions involving hallucinogens and astronomy, as previously celebrated in Chavín.

At the mural's center is a large bird of prey, possibly an eagle or falcon, with wings outstretched and a head crowned by diamond-shaped motifs. One section of the mural features a fish whose body forms an intricate three-dimensional net. The creators of this mural possessed important knowledge about medicinal plants and astronomy, including the ability to predict weather conditions through star observation.

The mural's discovery is a significant find, offering insights into the artistic sophistication and cultural practices of civilizations that predate the Inca and Moche civilizations. However, the site remains unprotected by Peru's Ministry of Culture, and it is threatened by looters, tractors, urban development, and climate disruption. If formal safeguards are not implemented soon, Huaca Yolanda could be lost before its full understanding.

On the northern face, three human-like figures appear to be transforming into birds, possibly depicting shamans entering a trance state. Mauricio believes the scene could depict a ritual experience triggered by hallucinogenic plants like the San Pedro cactus. The mural also features mythological creatures, stars, marine plants, and fish, suggesting a ritual experience.

The mural at Huaca Yolanda is unlike anything ever seen in the region, and its preservation is of utmost importance. The site needs urgent protection from the Ministry of Culture, as well as regional and municipal authorities, to prevent further damage and potential loss. Without proper protection, this valuable piece of history may be lost forever, leaving us with only fragments of a fascinating and enigmatic past.

Discovered: Ancient 4,000-year-old Mural in Peru, Pre-dating the Inca Empire by Thousands of Years