AI-Assisted Discovery of 303 New Nazca Geoglyphs in Peru #

Archaeologists have uncovered 303 previously unknown giant symbols carved in the Nazca Desert of Peru, with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI). This discovery nearly doubles the number of known Nazca geoglyphs, mysterious artworks formed in the ground by moving stones or gravel that date back approximately 2,000 years.

The newly discovered carvings include depictions of birds, plants, spiders, humanlike figures with headdresses, decapitated heads, and an orca wielding a knife. These findings not only expand the catalog of known geoglyphs but also provide insights into their enigmatic purpose.

AI-Powered Discovery Process #

Researchers trained an object detection AI model using high-resolution imagery of the 430 Nazca symbols mapped as of 2020. The AI model suggested over 47,000 potential sites across the 629 square kilometer (243 square mile) desert region. After screening and ranking these suggestions, the team identified 1,309 candidate sites with high potential.

Between September 2022 and February 2023, the researchers conducted fieldwork to verify the AI-suggested locations. They surveyed promising sites on foot and with drones, ultimately confirming 303 new figurative geoglyphs.

Significance of the Discovery #

The use of AI in this research has been described as a “game changer,” significantly reducing the labor required to narrow down potential sites and allowing researchers to focus on targeted fieldwork. This approach has the potential to revolutionize archaeological discoveries.

The newly discovered geoglyphs provide valuable information about the Nazca culture and the purpose of these ancient symbols. Analysis of the new and previously known geoglyphs revealed interesting patterns:

1. Larger, line-type geoglyphs typically depict wildlife such as animals or plants.
2. Smaller, relief-type geoglyphs often include humans or human-related themes.
3. A network of paths in the desert was more clearly revealed, with many close to different groups of symbols.

Theories on Geoglyph Purpose #

While the exact purpose of the Nazca geoglyphs remains unclear, several theories exist:

• They may have formed a sacred space, possibly used for pilgrimage.
• The symbols could have played a role in calendars, astronomy, or irrigation.
• They might have been used for movement-related activities like running or dancing.
• The geoglyphs could have served as a form of communication.

The research team’s analysis suggests that smaller geoglyphs were located along ancient winding trails, likely made by Nazca people viewing the symbols in small groups. Larger symbols were found near networks of straight lines, squares, and trapezoids, possibly used for ceremonial activities at the end of pilgrimages.

Further research is underway to decipher the precise meaning of the geoglyphs and their mysterious purpose. The researchers believe that the meaning of these symbols may be formed through their combinations and groupings.

This groundbreaking discovery demonstrates the potential of AI in archaeological research and provides new avenues for understanding the ancient Nazca culture and its enigmatic desert artworks.