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Nazca lines
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Nazca lines
Nazca lines. Aerial photograph of a geoglyph, or landscape drawing, in the coastal desert of southern Peru. The white lines of this geoglyph represent a hummingbird with its beak extending to upper left. Many of these geoglyphs take the form of stylised animals and other, unknown objects. They cover huge areas and can only be properly seen from the air. They were made by removing the dark surface stone to reveal a lighter stone layer underneath. They are thought to have been made by the Nazca, a native South American people, around 2000 years ago. Theories about the lines have ranged from uses in astronomy (for seasonal agriculture) to ceremonial uses in religion
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Media ID 6365521
© DAVID NUNUK/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Aerial Photography Ancient Ancient Civilisation Archaeology Archeology Bird Ceremonial Cognitive Archaeology Desert Geoglyphs Ground Humming Bird Landscape Drawings Nasca Nazca Lines Outlines Peruvian Religion Religious South American Worship
EDITORS COMMENTS
This aerial photograph showcases the intricate and enigmatic Nazca lines, etched into the coastal desert of southern Peru. The image captures a geoglyph depicting a hummingbird, its beak extending towards the upper left corner. These geoglyphs, spanning vast areas, can only be fully appreciated from above. Created by the ancient Nazca civilization approximately 2000 years ago, these stylized representations of animals and unknown objects were formed by removing dark surface stones to reveal lighter layers underneath. The purpose behind these remarkable creations has sparked much speculation throughout history. Some theories suggest their astronomical alignment aided in seasonal agriculture practices, while others propose ceremonial significance within religious rituals. Regardless of their intended function, these awe-inspiring designs continue to captivate modern minds and serve as a testament to the ingenuity and artistic prowess of past civilizations. This print offers a glimpse into an ancient world that remains shrouded in mystery. It invites us to ponder upon the cognitive archaeology behind such intricate artwork and encourages exploration into the depths of an ancient civilization's beliefs and practices. As we marvel at this stunning depiction of a hummingbird soaring through time, we are reminded that there is still so much more to uncover about our rich human heritage.
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