Ep 2. Discovering Peru's Earliest Cities

In the second episode of Lost Worlds of South America season 1, viewers are taken on a journey to explore the ancient cities of Peru. The episode, titled "Discovering Peru's Earliest Cities," provides an in-depth look at the country's earliest civilizations and how they may have formed.

The episode begins by introducing viewers to the Norte Chico civilization, which dates back to around 3000 BC and is located along Peru's northern coast. The Norte Chico people are believed to have been among the first in the world to develop a complex civilization without the use of ceramics, a practice that is otherwise common among early civilizations. Through interviews with archaeologists and historians, viewers learn about the society's unique social structure and the way they may have organized their cities.

Next, the show moves onto the Chavín culture, which emerged around 900 BC in the highlands of Peru. The Chavín civilization is known for their intricate stone carvings and architecture, which many believe holds mystical significance. The episode explores the ruins of Chavín de Huantar, the civilization's most significant archaeological site, and delves into its history, including how it may have influenced other civilizations in the region.

After exploring Chavín de Huantar, the show takes a closer look at the Moche civilization, which spanned from around 100 to 700 AD. The Moche people are known for their elaborate pottery, which depicts scenes from their daily lives, as well as their metalwork and impressive irrigation system, which allowed them to farm crops in Peru's otherwise arid coastal regions. Through interviews with experts, viewers learn about the Moche's culture, including their religious beliefs and the role of human sacrifice in their society.

Finally, the episode ends by taking viewers to the Nazca civilization, known for their iconic geoglyphs, or large designs etched into the ground. By examining the Nazca lines and exploring their culture and beliefs, viewers gain insights into how the civilization may have functioned and what they believed in. The show concludes by discussing some of the still-unanswered questions that surround the Nazca, such as how they were able to create such intricate designs without modern technology.

Overall, "Discovering Peru's Earliest Cities" is an intriguing and informative look at some of South America's most fascinating ancient civilizations. From the Norte Chico's unique social structure to the Moche's agricultural prowess, viewers are treated to a wealth of information and insights on these cultures and their history. Whether you're a history buff or just curious about the world's earliest civilizations, this episode is sure to captivate and enlighten.