Archaeologists Make Startling Discovery in Amazon Rainforest
Archaeologists have recently made a groundbreaking discovery deep within the Amazon rainforest, unearthing a cluster of lost cities that date back over 2,000 years. This incredible find, located in Ecuador, challenges our perception of the region as an untouched wilderness and sheds new light on the diverse ancient societies that once thrived there.
The lost cities were first noticed by archaeologist Stéphen Rostain more than two decades ago. However, thanks to the advancements in laser-sensor technology, recent mapping has revealed that this initial find is actually part of a much larger network of settlements and connecting roadways.
The sites were once inhabited by the Upano people between 500 B.C. and 300 to 600 A.D. Remarkably, the settlements were home to at least 10,000 farmers during this time, and potentially even more during its peak. Residential and ceremonial buildings sprawled across over 6,000 earthen mounds, displaying the elaborate culture and advanced system of organized labor that existed in the region.
Further investigation into the cities has revealed even more astonishing details. The largest roadways, stretching for 6 to 12 miles, were an impressive 33 feet wide, indicating a highly developed infrastructure. These findings go against the common belief that the Amazon rainforest was a pristine wilderness, showing us that ancient civilizations not only lived in this environment but thrived.
This finding also ties into similar evidence found in Bolivia and Brazil, further highlighting the rich and complex history of the Amazon region. These ancient rainforest societies challenge our understanding of ancient civilizations and the history of human settlement in the area.
The discovery of these lost cities is a significant breakthrough in the field of archaeology. It opens up new possibilities for further exploration and research into the intricate societies that once called the Amazon rainforest their home. As archaeologists continue to dive deeper into the dense vegetation of the region, we can only anticipate more exciting revelations about the remarkable history that lies hidden within this lush and vibrant landscape.
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