Stone Age Shelter in Peru: The Oldest, Highest Human Settlement
Discovery and Significance
High in the southern Peruvian Andes, archaeologists have uncovered an ancient Stone Age shelter that holds the distinction of being the oldest and highest human settlement ever discovered. Nestled at an altitude of nearly 14,700 feet, this remarkable site offers a glimpse into the adaptability and resourcefulness of early humans.
Evidence of Human Occupation
The shelter’s soot-blackened ceilings and rock art adorned walls bear witness to the presence of humans thousands of years ago. Excavations have revealed a treasure trove of artifacts, including ceramics, bone beads, quartz crystals, animal bones, and charred remains of woody shrubs used for fire.
Obsidian Vein and Toolmaking
A nearby vein of obsidian, a volcanic glass prized for its sharp cutting edge, likely drew ancient people to the site. Archaeologists have discovered an open-air workshop near the shelter containing over 260 tools, including hand axes and spear points, some of which may be as old as 12,800 years.
Extreme Environment and Human Adaptation
At such a high altitude, the environment posed significant challenges for early humans. The thin air provided less than 60% of the oxygen available at sea level, requiring them to consume more calories to survive. The arid landscape offered little fuel for fires, forcing them to adapt their survival strategies.
Year-Round Habitation and Evidence of Families
Archaeologist Sonia Zarrillo believes that the shelter may have been inhabited year-round, rather than just a temporary hunting camp. The presence of a wide range of artifacts suggests that families may have lived at the site, as evidenced by the discovery of bone beads, quartz crystals, and other items that are typically associated with domestic life.
Searching for the Site
Lead researcher Kurt Rademaker had been searching for this site since the 1990s. His initial discovery of an obsidian tool on Peru’s coast, far from any known volcanic source, led him to speculate that early humans must have traveled to the highlands to obtain this valuable material. Rademaker’s team eventually located the newly discovered sites in the Pucuncho Basin.
Significance for Understanding Human History
The discovery of this Stone Age shelter provides valuable insights into the adaptability and resourcefulness of early humans. It demonstrates their ability to survive and thrive in extreme environments, and their willingness to travel long distances to obtain essential resources. The site also sheds light on the early settlement of South America and the migratory patterns of ancient populations.
Additional Details
- The shelter contains two rocky alcoves that were used for habitation.
- The site is located in the Pucuncho Basin, an arid region with little vegetation.
- The obsidian vein is miles away from the nearest volcanic rock, indicating that early humans traveled considerable distances to obtain this material.
- The discovery of the site reveals the importance of obsidian in the lives of early humans and their willingness to adapt to challenging environments.
