Bandurria may rival Caral as oldest citadel in Americas.

Bandurria's walls,
May match Caral's ancient reign,
Oldest citadel.

Bandurria, Peruvian archeological site

Bandurria's circular ceremonial center. Right: Archaeological site of Bandurria located in Huaura, Lima.

Bandurria is the oldest Peruvian archaeological site, says expert
Bandurria may rival Caral as oldest citadel in Americas.
April 16, 2008. Source: Andina by Patrick J. McDonnell.

The archaelogical site of Bandurria dating back 3200 BC (located in the province of Huaura, Lima) is considered the origin of ancient American civilization, said archaeologist Alejandro Chu Barrera, director of the Archaeological Project of Bandurria.

“Several radiocarbon datings done in the United states confirmed that Bandurria dates back from 3200 B.C., while Caral dates from 2900”, said the archaeologist.

The expert mentioned that the main reason for the development of highly organized cultures along the Peruvian coast is explained in the availability of marine resources which allowed to improve the population’s diet of the place.

Bandurria is located 140 kilometres from Lima and received this peculiar name because of a bird which inhabit this area. It was discovered by late 1973 but first excavations took place in 1977. It wasn't until July 2005 that the site begun to be excavated by a team of archeologists and students from San Marcos National University, led by archeologist Alejandro Chu.