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Amazonas Region

Gran Vilaya

Extensive pre-Incan Chachapoya archaeological complex

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

Gran Vilaya is a significant archaeological site located in the Utcubamba Valley in northern Peru, dating back to the pre-Incan Chachapoya culture. The complex, discovered by Gene Savoy in 1985, consists of 15-30 major sites and hundreds of minor ones, spread over a large area. Approximately 5,000 buildings, both circular and rectangular, are constructed from local limestone and feature intricate geometric shapes and reliefs depicting motifs of humans and animals like snakes, condors, and pumas. The site reflects the architectural and artistic sophistication of the Chachapoya culture and offers insights into the social organization and defensive strategies of its inhabitants. Gran Vilaya's proximity to the Kuelap fortress highlights its strategic significance in the region.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Gran Vilaya

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Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Defensive Structures

Fortresses

Artistic and Decorative Features

Reliefs

Domestic and Habitation Structures

HousesVillages

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Amazonas Region
Source
Wikipedia