Archaeological discoveries like this are always exciting! Finding ancient cities in the Amazon that date back 2,500 years suggests a surprising cultural and social complexity that existed in the region over millennia. The Amazon, known for its vastness and dense forests, continues to reveal secrets of ancient civilizations that once inhabited the region. These discoveries not only expand our understanding of pre-Columbian history in South America, but also highlight the importance of preserving and studying the rich cultural and environmental diversity of the Amazon.

Discovering hidden cities beneath the Amazon rainforest

Discovering hidden cities beneath the dense Amazon rainforest is truly fascinating and challenging. These discoveries often involve a combination of research methods, including satellite imagery, remote sensing technologies and archaeological excavations on the ground.

Advances in remote sensing technology, such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), have been especially useful for mapping terrain beneath dense forest cover. This technology can penetrate vegetation and reveal structures and patterns that are not visible to the naked eye or in traditional satellite imagery.

Additionally, local communities often have traditional knowledge and oral histories that may indicate the presence of ancient civilizations or archaeological sites. Working collaboratively with these communities is essential to fully understanding the cultural and historical context of discoveries.

These discoveries not only expand our knowledge of the region's history, but also highlight the importance of conserving the Amazon and protecting the indigenous peoples who live there.

In what period were these cities populated?

The cities discovered in the Amazon, dating back to around 2,500 years ago, probably date back to the pre-Columbian period in South America. Specifically, this may be related to the development of pre-Columbian cultures in the region, such as the Marajó culture, the mortar-and-vase pottery culture, among others.

These ancient civilizations developed complex societies, with advanced agricultural systems, building practices, and social organization. The cities found may have been ceremonial, political, or commercial centers, with a significant population and distinctive architectural structures.

The period in which these cities were populated coincides with a time of great cultural diversity and innovation in pre-Columbian South America. Studying these cities allows us to better understand how these ancient civilizations lived, interacted with the environment, and contributed to human development in the region.