Lima Municipality archaeologists found 3,500-year-old high relief polychrome friezes —similar to those of Chavin de Huantar— at Huaca Garagay site in Lima's San Martin de Porres district.
Lead archaeologist Hector Walde explained the friezes were carved on a pilaster (column) placed at the huaca's ceremonial courtyard.
"These friezes display feline features highly similar and influenced by
Chavin de Huantar, although their production appears to be more local and even older," he noted.
Access stairways connecting the main square and great atrium of the complex have been discovered as well.
Abandoned for more than 30 years, the huaca is being upgraded by a Lima Municipality team of experts.
The idea is to upgrade the emblematic building and allow San Martin de Porres neighbors to get acquainted with the history of the city.
Garagay is a best architecture and art example of Lima's formative period, with a resemblance to Cupisnique and Chavin cultures.
(END) NDP/LIT/RMB/MVB
Published: 5/24/2017