The complex architectural structure linked to
served to plan productive activities such as fishing, shellfish gathering, and exchange with agricultural populations in the valley.
This was highlighted by archaeologist and Caral Archaeological Zone Director, Ruth Shady, during a tour of the millennia-old structure as part of the commemoration of 21 years of research, conservation, and enhancement work at Aspero—an archaeological site occupied between 3000 and 1800 B.C.
The expert said that during excavations in the so-called Sector J1, archaeologists identified a structure strategically located near the settlement's main pyramid buildings.
From that point there is a view toward the coastline and the lower part of Supe Valley, which would have facilitated monitoring of natural and astronomical phenomena.
In turn, Aspero Chief Archaeologist David Palomino said the Aspero inhabitants used rounded stones and pebbles set with clay to build the structure.
He added that it was designed in such a way that it casts shadows on the surface.
This may have been intended to determine cycles and movements of the sun, moon, and other celestial bodies.
Palomino said the structure is located to the south of Aspero, in an area near the coastline. From there it was possible to observe both the coastal zone and the adjacent Supe River valley.
The archaeologist noted that the finding confirms "the level reached regarding this knowledge that the Caral civilization had."
"This type of structure is also present in the so-called Sacred City of Caral, as well as in other settlements of this civilization," Palomino indicated. However, in this case, the distinctive feature is that it is a two-level structure, unlike those found in other areas influenced by the Caral civilization.
He indicated that detail could be due to the site's proximity to the coast, considering that Aspero was a populated settlement devoted to fishing, where anchovy and shellfish were obtained for food purposes.
Although agriculture represented another food source for the settlement, it should be taken into account that water in the Supe River channel becomes scarce between April and November, drying up during the rest of the year, the archaeologist explained.
Aspero Raymi 2026
The visit to the astronomical center forms part of activities marking 21 years of research, conservation, and enhancement work at Aspero.