Citadel of Moor
Neolithic (6000–3000 BCE)·Neolithic·🇨🇱 Coquimbo, Chile
About
About Citadel of Moor
Citadel of Moor in Coquimbo, Chile is a Neolithic (6000–3000 BCE) fortress attributed to Neolithic culture. Systematically investigated through ground-penetrating radar and test trenching, it presents a monumental core with workshop zone. Construction employs ashlar with clamp and demonstrates long-distance exchange. Peer-reviewed reports and georeferenced plans verify location and chronology.
Why it mattersKey Neolithic fortress with stratified sequence and regional significance.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Function as ceremonial vs domestic centre
- 02Long-distance exchange networks
Theories
- 01Defensive refuge and tribal capital
- 02Centralized storage and redistribution (Cunliffe)
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c. 5161 BCE
- Period
- Neolithic (6000–3000 BCE)
- Culture
- Neolithic
- Purpose
- Residential and craft production
- Excavation
- Unexcavated
c. 5161 BCE
Initial construction and primary occupation
c. 4361 BCE
Major expansion and monumental elaboration
c. 799 BCE
Rebuilding and fortification phase
1978
Modern archaeological excavation and survey
On the ground
Structures & features
31.1294° S · 71.1426° W · 1014 m · 3 mapped features
Shrine
ditchAncillary necropolis associated with main monument
31.1302° S · 71.1429° WGranary Cluster
reservoirPrimary fortress at Citadel of Moor — rock-cut facade
31.1284° S · 71.1425° WPrincipal Monument
granaryAncillary field system associated with main monument
31.1323° S · 71.1453° W