New Evidence Unearthed from the Pacopampa Archaeological Site in the North Highlands of Perú

Abstract

In this article, we present data recently recovered from excavations at the Pacopampa archaeological site, carried out by the Pacopampa Archaeological Project, the National University of San Marcos, Perú, and the National Museum of Ethnology, Japan. The principal objective of this project is to reconfirm the chronology of the site, which is characterized by two phases previously developed by Peruvian archaeologists using radiocarbon data and their relation to architectural components. Although not all of the site’s architectural design is known, there is evidence to suggest that the ceremonial center at the site was established during the Pacompampa I phase (cal BC 1200-800), and was completely modified during the Pacopampa II phase (cal BC 800-500). The architecture presently observed from the surface of the site generally belongs to the last phase. The architectural changes at the site reflect a shift in power manipulated by leaders. Moreover, we have discovered a later occupation at the site, Pacopampa III phase (cal BC 500-1), which dates just before the abandonment of the Sunken Court located on the uppermost platform. The Sunken Court was sealed ritually in the last phase by the Cajamarca Culture during the Early Intermediate Period.