Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Location
About
Wilamaya Patjxa is a significant archaeological site located in the Andean Altiplano within the Lake Titicaca Basin in Puno, Peru. Occupied approximately 9,000 years ago by mobile forager populations, it stands as the earliest directly dated evidence of human habitation in the region. The site, situated on a small hill spanning 1.6 hectares, lacks ceramics and permanent architecture, indicating a residentially mobile lifestyle. Key discoveries include burials of both a young-adult female and an adult male, interred with large-mammal hunting tools, challenging traditional views on gender roles in prehistoric societies. The site's faunal assemblage and stable isotope analysis reveal a predominantly plant-based diet. Wilamaya Patjxa provides critical insights into early human adaptation to high-altitude environments.
Gallery
Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Wilamaya Patjxa



Archaeological Features
Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Miscellaneous Features
Burial and Funerary Structures
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history
Plan Your Visit
Details
- Country
- Peru
- Source
- Wikipedia
More Sites in Peru
Zaña Valley (archaeology)
Ancient canals and megalithic temples
Soro Mik'aya Patjxa
High-altitude hunter-gatherer archaeological site
La Galgada (archaeological site)
Preceramic ceremonial and burial site in Peru.

Piruro
Stone fortress with multi-story structure
Chivateros
Prehistoric stone tool quarry and workshop
Nanchoc District
Ancient irrigation canals in Peru's Nanchoc valley