Nazca Civilization and Culture

The Nazca civilization thrived on Peru's southern coast from 200 BCE to 600 CE, known for its pottery, textiles, and the famous Nazca Lines. Politically, it was a collection of chiefdoms with cultural coherence but lacked centralized power. The Nazca engaged in trade, as evidenced by artifacts found in graves. Ventila served as the urban capital, while Kawachi was a religious center. The Nazca Lines, possibly used in religious rites, are large geoglyphs visible from the air. Nazca pottery and textiles are noted for their intricate designs, and their metalwork included gold masks and ornaments.

What was the primary characteristic of the Nazca civilization's political structure?

• A democratic republic

• A unified empire

• A collection of chiefdoms

• A centralized monarchy

Which animals' wool was used in Nazca textiles, indicating trade with highland cultures?

• Sheep and goats

• Llamas and alpacas

• Cows and buffaloes

• Camels and horses

What evidence suggests that the Nazca engaged in ancestor worship?

• The use of trophy heads in burials

• The presence of animal sacrifices

• The depiction of gods in pottery

• The construction of large temples

What was the purpose of the extensive water management system in Ventila?

• To prevent flooding

• To supply water to Kawachi

• To create decorative fountains

• To support agriculture

What was the primary function of Kawachi in the Nazca civilization?

• A religious capital

• A military fortress

• A trade center

• A residential area

What is one theory about the purpose of the Nazca lines?

• To act as maps for travelers

• To be walked along during religious rites

• To serve as astronomical calendars

• To mark territorial boundaries

What is a distinctive feature of Nazca pottery?

• Monochrome designs

• Lack of decoration

• Vividly rendered patterns

• Use of metal inlays

What materials did Nazca metalworkers primarily use?

• Iron and copper

• Silver and bronze

• Gold and tin

• Platinum and lead

Which of the following was NOT a common subject in Nazca pottery designs?

• Shamanic imagery

• Astronomical symbols

• Felines

• Crustaceans

What was a common feature of Nazca textiles?

• Minimalist styles

• Intricate and colorful designs

• Use of synthetic dyes

• Monochrome patterns