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Ancient Marketplace Discovered in Peru's Chincha Kingdom

11/10/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Monte Sierpe, a site in southern Peru with about 5,200 holes in grids, may have served as a marketplace and accounting system during the Chincha Kingdom, predating the Inca.
Drone analysis and sediment samples reveal remnants of maize and other plants, suggesting the holes held goods for barter.
The site spans about 1.5 kilometers and could have transitioned to a tribute collection system under the Inca.

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Story summary

Monte Sierpe, a site in southern Peru with about 5,200 holes in grids, may have served as a marketplace and accounting system during the Chincha Kingdom, predating the Inca.
Drone analysis and sediment samples reveal remnants of maize and other plants, suggesting the holes held goods for barter.
The site spans about 1.5 kilometers and could have transitioned to a tribute collection system under the Inca.