UNESCO honors ancient solar calendar made of 13 huge towers

Chankio, a 2300-year-old archaeological site in northern Peru, has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Known for its 13 stone towers, Chankio functioned as a solar calendar marking equinoxes and solstices. The site also features a Fortified Temple, believed to have been abandoned in the early 1st century AD. Little is known about the culture, but it is thought to have emerged from the collapse of the Shavin culture, during a time of conflict and social strife.

What is the significance of Chankillo being awarded UNESCO World Heritage status?

Describe the main features of the Chankillo site.

How did the towers at Chankillo function as a calendar?

What do archaeologists believe about the abandonment of the Chankillo site?

What does the term 'balkanization' refer to in the context of the Chankillo society?