Cuevas de Sumbay, Rock art caves at Misti volcano slope, Arequipa, Peru.
Cuevas de Sumbay are rock caves on the slope of Misti volcano in Arequipa, located at over 4,100 meters elevation and containing more than 500 paintings. The artworks spread across nine different grottos and depict local animals and human figures.
The caves were explored through archaeological excavations in 1968 led by Máximo Neira and show evidence of settlements dating back around 8,000 years. These findings reveal the existence of early hunter-gatherer communities in this high-altitude region.
The rock paintings show vicunas, guanacos, pumas, and extinct suri birds alongside human figures performing hunting rites and dances. These images reveal the wildlife and spiritual practices that shaped the lives of people who lived here long ago.
A visit requires a demanding journey of about 80 kilometers from Arequipa, followed by a trek of about 5 kilometers to reach the caves. Morning hours are recommended for better light and visibility.
The artists used white, cream, yellow, and ochre pigments to create three-dimensional effects, with white markings representing the oldest artistic work. This pigment choice demonstrates sophisticated techniques applied across thousands of years.
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