Nanchoc, Archaeological site in Zaña Valley, Peru
Nanchoc is an archaeological site in the Zaña Valley with roughly 80 excavated areas showing remains of huts and foundations built from adobe and stone. These structures spread across the mountain slopes and reveal how early communities organized their settlements.
Research beginning in 1977 uncovered evidence of early farming practices dating back around 8333 BC. This discovery established the site as the oldest agricultural settlement in the Americas.
The name Nanchoc refers to the ancient settlement that once thrived in this valley. You can observe how early farmers organized their daily lives and managed their crops across these slopes.
The site sits about 500 meters above sea level near the modern town of Nanchoc, located where Lambayeque and La Libertad regions meet. You can walk through the open areas easily, though the mountain terrain requires attention to your footing.
Natural mountain springs in the side ravines provided a steady water supply for the early inhabitants. This reliable water network allowed people to deliberately cultivate crops like squash, peanuts, and cotton for the first time in the Americas.
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