Decades-long archaeological quest solves mystery of Peru's 'Band of Holes'

A Florida archaeologist's persistent research has potentially solved one of Peru's most enduring archaeological mysteries—the purpose of the strange "Band of Holes" carved into a mountainside in the Pisco Valley. Charles Stanish, a University of South Florida anthropology professor and Andean history specialist, has concluded that the more than 5,200 shallow pits served as a pre-Inca marketplace before being repurposed by the Inca civilization. The findings demonstrate how advanced archaeological techniques can unravel historical mysteries, much like ongoing archaeological work in Türkiye continues to reveal new insights about ancient civilizations.

Advanced mapping reveals organized patterns

During their most recent expedition, Stanish collaborated with Dr. Jacob Bongers from the University of Sydney to conduct the first detailed aerial mapping of the site using advanced drone technology. The high-resolution images revealed "striking patterns" in the arrangement of the holes, showing they were laid out in segmented, mathematically organized rows. The researchers noted that the design closely resembled the Inca khipus—knotted cords used for counting and record-keeping—suggesting a sophisticated organizational system behind what initially appeared to be random pits.

Soil analysis provides crucial evidence

The most compelling evidence came from microscopic analysis of soil samples extracted from the pits. Researchers discovered fossilized seeds showing traces of maize and plants traditionally used for weaving and packaging materials. This finding strongly suggested the holes were used to store and handle agricultural goods and other commodities. The discovery of traditional reeds and willow fibers, still used by Inca and Quechua communities for transporting goods, provided additional support for their theory that the site functioned as a commercial and storage facility.

Evolution of the site's function

Stanish's research, conducted through multiple field studies since the 1980s, indicates the site evolved over time. Initially created by pre-Inca communities as a basic marketplace, the pits were later adapted by the Incas into a more advanced system for accounting and agricultural storage. This repurposing demonstrates how successive civilizations often built upon existing infrastructure. The researcher noted that further seed analysis and new excavations are planned, but he believes their explanation for the Band of Holes is now firmly supported by the accumulated evidence.