Temple of Kotosh

Location:
Huánuco, Peru

Other Activity

By Amanda Massello

Tread foot on ancient ground at the Temple of Kotosh, the oldest evidence of human civilization in Perú, dating between 4, 000 and 5, 000 years old. Built during the Mito period (the late Ceramic period), 2000–1800 BC, the area around the temple is believed to have been sacred land, due to the limited amount of houses uncovered near the site. The temple takes its name from the pile of rocks uncovered there, as kotosh means pile.  Multiple sculptures resembling a set of crossed hands are carved into the temple walls—giving the temple its second name—el Templo de las Manos Cruzadas. Archaeologists believe the hands to represent the concept of duality in Huanca cosmology, as each hand rests on the other, though they are crossed.  However, many different interpretations exist ranging from the image of a sacrificial offering to the gods, to a symbol of protection against enemies, a symbol for male and female, or even a simple representation of a common ritual.   

Getting There
5 minutes by car (or 5 km) headed west of Huánuco.

Relative price: Very cheap