Complex Formative Settlements in the Central-South Andes: When the Periphery became the Nucleus

Abstract

In this paper we discuss the diffusionist implications derived from centre-periphery relationships and the establishment of dependency links between western valley and circunpuna societies within the nuclear zone of the central and southern highlands during the Early and Middle Formative periods in northern Chile (1500 BC up to AD 400). By analyzing two complex settlements, Tulán-54 (located 3000 meters above sea level) and Caserones-1 (900 meters above sea level), we have observed that there has been an over-interpretation of foreign contributions in explaining the rise of sedentism that is associated with Formative Period developments. The identification of Archaic and Formative period components at the Tarapacá and Tulán loci supports an autochthonous development, which suggests the rise of local complex societies with early multidirectional links within a framework of highly diversified Formative responses in the Central-South Andean area.