Puquios

The puquíos consist of underground tunnels, surface channels, and spiral-shaped openings that transport water across the Nazca region through stone-lined passages.

Built between 300 and 500 CE, these water channels enabled the Nazca civilization to survive in one of the driest regions, receiving less than 25 millimeters of rain annually.

The Nazca people engineered this complex water system with stone-lined galleries and ventilation shafts, demonstrating their advanced understanding of hydraulic principles.

Forty-three puquíos remain operational today, providing water for agriculture and domestic use through a combination of underground tunnels and surface channels.

The spiral entrances, known as ojos, function both as access points and wind catchers, creating air pressure that pushes water through the underground system.

Location: Ica Department

Location: Nasca Province

GPS coordinates: -14.82890,-74.94360

Latest update: May 27, 2025 11:40