AI Insight
Hundreds of previously unknown earthworks have been discovered in the Amazon region, with many structures dating to approximately 100-300 C.E. during the Aquiry civilization period. These ancient geometric structures are believed to have served ceremonial purposes rather than defensive or residential functions. The discovery challenges previous assumptions about the Amazon being sparsely populated before European contact.
Why it matters
This finding reveals that pre-Columbian Amazonian societies were more complex and had greater landscape modification capabilities than previously recognized. The discovery provides new insights into ancient indigenous civilizations and their relationship with the Amazon environment, potentially reshaping our understanding of the region's archaeological and cultural history.
Understand the Science
Many of these structures date to around C.E. 100–300, during the time of the Aquiry civilization, and may have been used for ceremonial purposes
Source: Hundreds of ancient, never-before-seen ‘earthworks’ discovered in the Amazon