Archaeologists found an intriguing find near Peru’s famed Nazca Lines. Using artificial intelligence (AI) and drones, they discovered 303 new geoglyphs – huge drawings carved on the ground. These recently discovered paintings include creatures such as parrots, cats, monkeys, and killer whales, as well as human figures and severed skulls. Geoglyphs are vast designs or patterns made on the ground; the Nazca Lines are a well-known example, with massive artwork visible from above.
The 303 new geoglyphs are smaller than the well-known Nazca figures and date from circa 200 BC. This finding sheds new light on the area’s past. Researchers from Japan’s Yamagata University collaborated with IBM to make this finding using AI and drone technology. This innovative strategy enabled them to locate geoglyphs considerably more quickly than old methods. The AI evaluated drone photographs, detected microscopic features that are difficult to perceive with the naked eye, and covered enormous regions fast.
This discovery is significant for several reasons. First, it almost doubles the number of known geoglyphs in the area. Second, it provides insight into the transition between two ancient cultures: Paracas and Nazca. Finally, it demonstrates how technology may accelerate archeological findings. These new geoglyphs differ from the existing Nazca Lines in various respects. They are smaller, spanning just 3 to 7 meters wide, and older, going back to 200 BC (the Nazca Lines are from AD 200 to 700). They may have served a different role, such as signals or family groups, and appear to be more focused on ordinary life scenarios.
This revelation offers up new avenues of inquiry. Archaeologists are expected to continue utilizing AI and drones to examine the region, maybe revealing even more old artwork and patterns. By mixing modern technologies with conventional archaeology, researchers are unearthing surprising facts about ancient societies. These finds help us comprehend how humans lived and communicated thousands of years ago.
This information opens up fresh lines of study. Archaeologists are likely to continue using AI and drones to survey the area, potentially uncovering even more ancient artwork and patterns. Researchers are discovering unexpected information about ancient cultures by combining contemporary technology with traditional archaeology. These findings help us understand how people lived and communicated thousands of years ago.
Rewritten and simplified from an article by Dan Collyns, originally published in The Guardian on September 26, 202. You can check out the full article here.
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