Discovered in a secluded cloud forest: More than a hundred ancient structures, revealing an enigmatic civilization of the past

In the heart of the Río Abiseo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, lies Gran Pajatén, one of the most iconic sites of the Chachapoya civilization. Known as the "people of the cloud forest," the Chachapoya flourished between the 7th and 16th centuries, managing to maintain a distinct cultural identity despite their remote and challenging environment.

Recent technological advancements have revealed a much larger and more complex site at Gran Pajatén. Prior to the discoveries, only 26 structures were known at the site. However, the application of LiDAR scanning and photogrammetry has uncovered a wealth of new structures, including ceremonial platforms, staircases, and buildings.

The World Monuments Fund, an organisation dedicated to the preservation of historical sites, has been at the forefront of efforts to protect and document Gran Pajatén. Using advanced technology, they have gathered extraordinary visual and scientific documentation of the site while preserving its delicate environment. Non-invasive digital mapping has provided the most detailed documentation of Gran Pajatén to date.

Bénédicte de Montlaur, President and CEO of the World Monuments Fund, stated that the team's work brings Gran Pajatén to life without compromising its historical accuracy. The site's integrity is being preserved through efforts such as reinforcing key structures with specially designed clay mortar.

The discoveries at Gran Pajatén suggest a highly organized settlement with possible ties to other Chachapoya cities. Researchers have found roads connecting Gran Pajatén to other Chachapoya settlements, indicating that it was part of an extensive network of linked communities. Evidence also suggests that Gran Pajatén was a significant centre for the Chachapoya, possibly serving as a ceremonial hub or a regional capital.

Gran Pajatén's strategic location at an altitude of up to 9,800 feet above sea level offered natural defenses against potential invaders. This, coupled with its architectural ingenuity and artistic achievements, makes Gran Pajatén a testament to the Chachapoya's resilience and creativity.

However, to ensure its protection from potential damage, the site remains closed to tourists. The Chachapoya's legacy continues to intrigue researchers, with the discoveries at Gran Pajatén raising questions about the social and cultural importance of the site within the wider Chachapoya network. The work at Gran Pajatén serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to preserve and understand our historical heritage.

Discovered in a secluded cloud forest: More than a hundred ancient structures, revealing an enigmatic civilization of the past