Tumshukayko facts for kids

Tumshukayko is an amazing ancient place in Peru, built long before the famous Inca Empire. It's an important archaeological site located near the city of Caraz in the Ancash Region.

This special site was found not too long ago and scientists are still studying it. Its main buildings are on the side of the Llullán river, close to the big Cordillera Blanca mountains. Tumshukayko sits high up, about 2,300 meters (7,500 feet) above sea level. Experts believe the oldest parts of the site were built around 2000 BCE (Before Common Era). Later, around 300 BCE to 300 CE (Common Era), other people, possibly from the Recuay culture, also lived there.

The very first buildings at Tumshukayko were likely constructed between the time of La Galgada (3000–2000 BCE) and the period of the Chavín culture (1200–300 BCE). The art found here looks similar to pieces from the Moxeke complex in the Casma Valley.

In 1873, an Italian explorer named Antonio Raimondi described Tumshukayko as a "hill" with huge stone walls that were partly damaged. Later, in 1919, Dr. Julio C. Tello, a famous Peruvian archaeologist, confirmed this. He noted that the site had platforms, terraces, and even stairs inside. Around 1990, some work was done to clear away dirt and trash from the site.

What Makes Tumshukayko Important?

Tumshukayko was likely a very big and important center for the ancient people who lived in the area. Its large size and special design suggest it was a significant place for gatherings or ceremonies.

Exploring the Ancient Structures

Tumshukayko is found just 1 kilometer (about half a mile) north of the modern city of Caraz. It seems it was a central place for the communities living nearby. The builders used amazing stonework to create a circular structure. This structure has different levels, like platforms and terraces, along with stairways. There are also lower, curved walls, separated by about 2.4 meters (8 feet). The spaces between these walls were filled with loose rocks and earth. The outside walls of the buildings are decorated with cool geometric shapes and carvings.

The entire structure is quite large, stretching about 300 meters (980 feet) across and rising 25 meters (82 feet) high. Some of the most interesting things found at Tumshukayko are stone heads, known as cabezas clavas, and triangular stones. These findings strongly suggest a connection to the early Chavín culture, which was known for its impressive stone art.

See also

In Spanish: Tumshucaico para niños