Researchers from Cusco’s Cultural Department discovered pre-Hispanic rock paintings in the area of Pachamama, near the access road that leads to Machu Picchu, the Inca citadel of dated to 15th century. Archaeologists state that the painting might be older than the Incan culture. Newly discovered painted images show a figure of a llama, a man and a geometric shape above them.

The discovery site is closed to conduct further research. Archaeologists plan to excavate the site and conduct actions to preserve the painting. In the same area, back in 1912, 4 graves were discovered by the second Peruvian expedition of Yale University. The paintings were however unnoticed due to dense vegetation until now.

(after Peru This Week)