Desert Speaks

Costal Civilizations Of Ancient Peru

This episode surveys some of the enormous adobe pyramids that still tower over the vast Peruvian countryside. South American archaeological expert Axel Nielsen guides host David Yetman through the premier museum of South America, the Royal Tombs of Sipan, which house some of the richest gold artifacts in the world. From there, they trek to Huaca del Sol and Huaca del Luna, immense pyramids that emphasize the duality and symbolism of the pre-Incan societies. The last archeological stop is Chan Chan, an area known for its walls of design and decoration, which stretch as far as the eye can see. Finally, watch the local fisherman construct and then navigate their boats made out of totora reeds in the same manner as their pre-Ican ancestors. Observe how these "caballitos del mar" (sea horses) are used daily to harvest fish from the sea.