Ancient Lost Cities Unearthed in the Amazonian Forests

Archaeologists have discovered a sophisticated network of ancient cities in the jungles of the Amazon within the territory of Ecuador. This discovery is significant as it reshapes our understanding of the history of people in this region during the pre-Columbian era, challenging the previous belief that they never inhabited the area, as reported by the BBC.

These cities are located in the Upano Valley in Ecuador, in the eastern foothills of the Andes, with an age ranging from 3000 to 1500 years. These cities are older than other pre-Columbian settlements found in the Amazon region. While archaeologists previously found mounds and large monuments in the area, the current discovery is much more extensive and intricate compared to all previous findings.

On-site excavations have revealed over 6000 rectangular earthen platforms arranged in a geometric order. Scientists believe these are the foundations of buildings, including residential and ceremonial structures. These platforms are interconnected by a network of roads that intersect with agricultural landscapes and river drainage systems. Researchers have also identified embankments with channels on both sides, likely used to manage excess water in the region. Defensive structures, such as trenches blocking access to the cities, have also been discovered.

"This is the oldest settlement known to us in the Amazon. We have a Eurocentric view of civilization, but this discovery shows that we need to change our perception of what culture and civilization are," said Stephen Rostain, representative of the National Center for Scientific Research in France and the head of the expedition.

Scientists note that this type of urban planning can be compared to similar urban systems of the Maya civilization recently discovered in Mexico and Guatemala. Inhabitants of these ancient cities likely engaged primarily in agriculture, consuming crops such as corn and sweet potatoes, and possibly imbibing "chicha," a type of sweet beer.

"This changes our perception of Amazonian culture. Most people imagine the inhabitants of the Amazon as small groups of naked people living in huts. However, our discovery indicates that ancient inhabitants of the region lived in complex urban societies," says co-author of the study Antoine Dorison.

The reason for the disappearance of the people who lived in these cities remains unknown. It is challenging to accurately estimate the population of these cities at different times, but scientists suggest that it could range from 10,000 to 100,000 inhabitants.