Ruins of an ancient temple belonging to a mysterious civilization have been discovered.

A group of archaeologists has discovered the ruins of a monumental temple in Bolivia attributed to the ancient Tiwanaku civilization, a mysterious civilization that predated the Inca Empire. The site, known locally as Palaspata, is located on a hill about 215 kilometers southeast of the Tiwanaku archaeological site. According to archaeologist José Capriles of Pennsylvania State University (who led the research), the temple may have been an important strategic center, located at the confluence of three key trade routes that connected diverse ecosystems.

To this day, there is debate about what caused their downfall, but we do know that it was a complex culture based on cosmological religion , politics, and an agro-pastoral economy that emerged around 110 AD. " Their society collapsed around 1000 AD and was in ruins by the time the Incas conquered the Andes in the 15th century," Capriles said in an interview with Science Alert.

The temple, measuring approximately 125 by 145 meters, features 15 enclosed areas arranged around a central courtyard . This layout is typical of Tiwanakota architecture , characterized by sunken courtyards surrounded by rectangular rooms and terraced platforms. The temple's main entrance faces west, aligned with the solar equinox, suggesting astronomical planning in its construction.

The main entrance of the temple faces west, aligned with the solar equinox, suggesting astronomical planning.

Researchers used drone imagery and photogrammetry techniques to create a detailed digital reconstruction of the temple. The technology allowed them to identify structures barely visible on the surface, revealing the complexity of the architectural design and its integration with the surrounding landscape.

Fragments of pottery were found on the site, including keru cups, bowls, and incense burners, indicating their use in religious rituals and agricultural festivals. Ceramic remains from other cultures, such as the Yampara, Tupuraya, and Mojocoya , were also found, suggesting cultural and commercial interactions with the inter-Andean regions.

In addition, fragments of Carangas pottery, camelid bones, turquoise pieces, and a Peruvian olive shell were discovered, demonstrating connections with the Atacama Desert and the Pacific coast. The findings reinforce the idea that Palaspata was a hub in a trade network that spanned diverse regions.

A group of archaeologists has discovered the ruins of a monumental temple in Bolivia attributed to the ancient Tiwanaku civilization, a mysterious civilization that predated the Inca Empire. The site, known locally as Palaspata, is located on a hill about 215 kilometers southeast of the Tiwanaku archaeological site. According to archaeologist José Capriles of Pennsylvania State University (who led the research), the temple may have been an important strategic center, located at the confluence of three key trade routes that connected diverse ecosystems.