description Paracas Candelabra Overview
The Paracas Candelabra is an ancient geoglyph created by the Paracas people in Peru. Dug into a coastal hillside around 200 BCE, it depicts a large, stylized candelabra shape. Its impressive size and visibility from the sea make it a significant archaeological find, offering insights into the beliefs and practices of this pre-Inca civilization. Archaeologists and researchers studying ancient Peruvian cultures particularly benefit from its study.
insights Ranking position
Paracas Candelabra ranks #10 of 74 in the Geoglyph ranking, behind Cerro Unitas Geoglyph, ahead of Nazca Lines Cat.
help Paracas Candelabra FAQ
Where exactly is the Paracas Candelabra located?
The geoglyph is carved into the sandy soil of the Paracas Peninsula in the Ica Region of Peru. It sits on the northern slope of the Paracas Bay. It is clearly visible from the ocean, which has led to theories about its use as a maritime navigational aid.
How big is the Paracas Candelabra geoglyph?
The massive design is approximately 595 feet (181 meters) tall. It was created by digging trenches into the dark desert sand to reveal the lighter soil beneath. The lines of the design are up to two feet deep, ensuring its survival against the region's harsh winds.
When was the Paracas Candelabra created?
The exact age is debated, but pottery found nearby dates to around 200 BCE, linking it to the ancient Paracas culture. Some archaeologists believe it could have been constructed by the subsequent Nazca culture. Radiocarbon dating of the artifacts provides the primary historical timeline.
What is the meaning of the Paracas Candelabra?
Despite its modern name, archaeologists do not believe it depicts an actual candelabra. The most prominent theory suggests it represents a local plant, the Joshua tree, or possibly a hallucinogenic cactus like the San Pedro. Others argue it was a navigational marker or a symbol of the lightning god Viracocha.
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