About
About Port Playa Quarry
Port Playa Quarry in Ancash, Peru is a Ubaid (6500–3800 BCE) quarry attributed to Ubaid culture. Systematically investigated through aerial LiDAR and stratigraphic excavation, it presents a central mound with ancillary settlement. Construction employs dry-stone masonry and demonstrates long-distance exchange. Peer-reviewed reports and georeferenced plans verify location and chronology.
Why it mattersKey Ubaid quarry with stratified sequence and regional significance.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Function as ceremonial vs domestic centre
- 02Long-distance exchange networks
Theories
- 01Elite residence and administrative centre
- 02Ceremonial centre and pilgrimage focus
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. 4293 BCE
- Period
- Ubaid (6500–3800 BCE)
- Culture
- Ubaid
- Purpose
- Residential and craft production
- Excavation
- Excavated
c. 4293 BCE
Initial construction and primary occupation
c. 3493 BCE
Major expansion and monumental elaboration
c. 678 BCE
Rebuilding and fortification phase
1974
Modern archaeological excavation and survey
On the ground
Structures & features
8.3242° S · 78.2256° W · 964 m · 3 mapped features
Hydraulic Channel
altarBurial zone — cists
8.3245° S · 78.2280° WReservoir/Cistern
templePrimary quarry at Port Playa Quarry — rock-cut facade
8.3259° S · 78.2276° WTemple Platform
enclosurePrimary quarry at Port Playa Quarry — megalithic chamber
8.3253° S · 78.2276° W