Lost Cities Discovered in Amazon Rainforest – A Glimpse into Ancient Civilizations
In a groundbreaking discovery, a cluster of lost cities has been unearthed in the depths of the Amazon rainforest. Archeologists have revealed that these cities were once bustling hubs for more than 10,000 farmers almost 2,000 years ago. The findings challenge the popular notion of the Amazon as an untouched wilderness and provide a fascinating glimpse into the region’s rich history.
The cities were initially observed by renowned archaeologist Stephen Rostain over two decades ago in Ecuador. However, it was only recently, with the aid of laser-sensor technology, that a comprehensive mapping project revealed the true extent of these ancient settlements. The researchers were able to identify a dense network of interconnected towns, connected by meticulously constructed roadways.
Historical evidence suggests that these cities were occupied by the Upano people between 500 B.C. and 300-600 A.D. The settlements were characterized by a unique architectural style, featuring residential and ceremonial buildings situated on earthen mounds. Surrounding these structures were expansive agricultural fields with sophisticated drainage canals, a clear indication of the inhabitants’ advanced farming techniques.
The cities boasted an extensive network of roads, with the largest ones measuring an impressive 33 feet wide and stretching between 6 to 12 miles. This discovery not only sheds light on the Upano people’s ingenuity but also hints at the complex society that thrived within these cities. The construction of such elaborate roadways and mounds would have required a highly organized labor force, showcasing the advanced social structure of these ancient communities.
The estimated population of these lost cities ranges between 10,000 and possibly even reaching 15,000 or 30,000 individuals at its peak. This staggering figure further highlights the significance of these settlements and the thriving civilization that once called this now lush rainforest their home.
This discovery has far-reaching implications, as it challenges the prevailing perceptions about the Amazon rainforest. For centuries, the region has been portrayed as a pristine wilderness, untouched by human presence. However, archeological finds in Bolivia and Brazil have also indicated the presence of intricate rainforest societies, suggesting that the Amazon was home to a diverse range of civilizations.
The publication of these findings in the prestigious journal Science underscores the significance of this archaeological breakthrough. Further support was provided by the Howard Hughes Medical Institute’s Science and Educational Media Group, solidifying the importance of uncovering history’s secrets hidden within the Amazon’s dense foliage.
These newly discovered lost cities have offered a glimpse into an ancient civilization that once thrived within the Amazon rainforest. As we continue to explore the depths of this vast and diverse region, it is evident that there is still much more to uncover about the forgotten chapters of our shared human history.
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