New Nazca discovery: Ancient cat geoglyph found in Peru

Peru has long been famous for its giant drawings created by ancient people. One of the latest discoveries from 2020 depicts a reclining cat, estimated by scientists to be over 2,000 years old.

In recent years, geoglyphs, a term used to describe these drawings, have been identified around Nazca. Ancient local cultures created these drawings, depicting humans, animals, and even handprints. In 1994, UNESCO designated these geoglyphs as World Heritage Sites.

The most recent geoglyph discovered around Nazca is the aforementioned cat, which archaeologists found in 2020. This "lounging" animal on the mountainside measures about 121 feet in length and was likely created around 200 B.C.

Despite its existence in Peru for centuries, the cat drawing went unnoticed. Unearthing it required thorough cleaning and conservation. Modern technology, particularly drones, has significantly aided archaeologists in these observations.

Quoted by the Peruvian news agency Andina, scientist Johny Isla expressed amazement that new drawings are still being discovered. The advancement of technology has been a critical factor. – He explained that it used to require pictures from airplanes, and now we can use drones.

The origins of these drawings have been the subject of various theories, some even attributing them to alien presence. Czech researcher Jiri Mruzek suggests that some geoglyphs may be related to the mythical Atlantis, pointing to a set of lines in Nazca as possible clues to its location.

The most likely explanation is the cult of mountain gods associated with water. Given Nazca's arid environment, the people might have drawn animals as part of their prayers and offerings to the gods.

Following the latest discovery in 2020, scientists have expressed concern about the urban development surrounding these sites. Archaeologists warn that urbanization may disrupt archaeological work and threaten yet-to-be-discovered geoglyphs.