Discovered a 5,500-year-old square in Peru

A large square built 5,500 years ago was discovered in Peru. Archaeologists think it is one of the oldest buildings in America.

The group of Peruvian and German archaeologists discovered the circular plaza, located deep beneath another ruined structure called Sechin Bajo in Casma, 368 km north of the capital Lima. Pillars shaped like a warrior holding a knife and spoils are also found near the square.

" This is an impressive discovery. It can redraw the history of the country, " said Cesar Perez, a scientist at Peru's National Institute of Culture.

Prior to this discovery, it was assumed that the Caral citadel in Peru was the oldest in the western hemisphere, dating back about 5,000 years.

Scientists say Caral, a few dozen kilometers from Sechin Bajo, is one of six places in the world where people began living in cities about 5,000 years ago. Other places are Mesopotamia, Egypt, China, India and Central America. Meanwhile, the newly discovered square is defined to be 5,500 years old and has a diameter of about 14 m.

We found many traces of other buildings under the square that may be older, "said Yenque archaeologist. " There are about 4-5 stone platforms deep below, demonstrating the work has been rebuilt many times, separated by about 100-300 years ".

Archaeologists are covering the ground to conserve the area and will continue to excavate deeper floors when there is enough funding.