Wichqana

Wichqana, located in the Ayacucho Region of Peru, is an archaeological site active during the Kishka Pata Period, around 1200-800 BCE. The site served as a ceremonial center on the central highlands of Peru, notable for its U-shaped arrangement of stones and Chavinoid cultural influences. The presence of semicircular temple structures on artificial mounds suggests the site was used for religious activities, possibly involving priestly figures. The discovery of five skulls of women, accompanied by cobblestones in semi-circles, indicates the importance of sacrificial practices. Pottery found at the site is basic, with little decoration. The economy of the Wichqana people was based on agriculture, pastoralism, and hunting, with trade initially focused on the northern territory before shifting towards coastal areas.