Ancient Tiwanaku Temple Over 1,000 Years Old Discovered in Bolivia

A monumental temple over a thousand years old, belonging to the ancient Tiwanaku civilization, has been discovered in Bolivia. The site, named Palaspata Temple, was confirmed by a group of archaeologists, revealing new insights into the extensive reach of the Tiwanaku culture. For centuries, the temple remained hidden atop a hill, accessible primarily to local farmers. Its discovery indicates that the Tiwanaku civilization exercised a much wider control than previously believed. The Palaspata Temple is located approximately 200 kilometers from the main ceremonial center of Tiwanaku, at a strategic point where three distinct ecosystems – the Altiplano, valleys, and highlands – converge. This location suggests it was a crucial hub for commerce, rituals, and cultural exchange. The newly discovered temple features 15 enclosures and a central courtyard, architectural elements similar to those found at Kalasasaya, another prominent Tiwanaku site. Furthermore, its alignment with significant solar events, such as the equinox, confirms its role as a site for sacred ceremonies. This archaeological find is expected to contribute significantly to our understanding of pre-Inca civilizations in the Andean region.