Revealing Old Secrets with AI in Latin America
Artificial intelligence is changing archaeology in Latin America, revealing the secrets of old cultures. AI is essential in the study of the past. Peru’s Nazca Lines and new findings in the region show this change. Perhaps AI holds the key to understanding our history better.
Ancient Landscapes Meet Modern Technology
The Nazca Lines of Peru, spanning 450 square kilometers of desert land south of Lima, are a sight to behold. These enigmatic lines, featuring colossal drawings of humans, animals, and shapes, have fascinated archaeologists for over a century. The geoglyphs, a truly captivating mystery in archaeology, were crafted by the Nazca people between 200 BC and 650 AD. Their true purpose, visible only from an aerial perspective, a view their creators never had, continues to puzzle experts.
For decades, scholars like German mathematician Maria Reiche and Long Island University historian Paul Kosok pondered the meaning of these intricate designs. Kosok once called the vast network of lines “chaotic yet mesmerizing,” suggesting they might have an astronomical purpose. However, their true purpose still puzzles experts.
Artificial intelligence now helps researchers uncover secrets of the Nazca Lines quickly. Japanese researchers, working with IBM scientists, use machine learning to study aerial images. Recently, this method discovered 303 additional geoglyphs. This find doubled the number already known. It provides a new understanding of the Nazca civilization. “AI helped us finish in six months what would have taken many years,” Sakai told BBC Science Focus.
AI’s Role in Revealing History
AI working with archaeology signifies a significant change in studying ancient cultures. While the Nazca Lines are among the most famous examples, AI is also used to locate burial mounds, shipwrecks, and other historical remains worldwide. In Sakai’s words, “AI excels at processing large volumes of data efficiently,” making it an indispensable tool for modern archaeology.
Sakai’s team started using AI in 2018. They first tested detection methods in a 27-square-kilometer part of the Nazca desert. The AI found four new geoglyphs. These results were excellent. In 2024, the team looked at the whole Nazca area. AI identified 178 geoglyphs. People later confirmed 66 of these shapes. Sakai mentioned that AI is helpful, but human experts remain essential. Human experts are still very important.
This is a big step in archaeology. New digital tools such as photogrammetry and remote sensing transform the field. Dr. João Fonte, an archaeologist with ERA Arqueologia, notes that “archaeology is at the forefront of innovation within the humanities,” thanks to the integration of AI.
Rethinking Ancient Narratives
The flood of discoveries has reshaped theories about the purpose of the Nazca Lines. Scientists previously thought that geoglyphs showing people and animals were tied to walking paths. These paths may have guided sacred ceremonies or daily journeys. Now, with almost 1,000 geoglyphs found, this idea seems very likely.
Work by Sakai’s group showed that many geoglyphs are visible from these paths, suggesting they were meant to be seen while moving. The pictures probably showed details about nearby events or places, like rituals or resources. Sakai said, “The geoglyphs acted like visual messages, closely mixed with the surroundings.”
This evolving understanding underscores the urgency of preserving the Nazca Lines, which face increasing threats from human activity and climate change. In this crucial effort, AI plays a pivotal role. It aids researchers in mapping the geoglyphs most at risk of water damage and devising strategies to protect them, instilling hope for the preservation of these ancient wonders.
AI’s Expanding Influence
Beyond the Nazca Lines, AI is proving invaluable in other archaeological contexts. Researchers used machine learning in Dubai’s Saruq Al Hadid (Valley of Iron) to identify copper smelting sites from satellite data. This approach provided critical insights while sparing field archaeologists from extreme heat and challenging terrain. Similarly, in Europe, the Odyssey project has taught AI to detect hillforts by analyzing elevation changes and landscape features. “AI doesn’t just see the site; it understands its relationship to the environment,” said Alberto Lago da Silva, a project consultant.
AI’s skill in combining different kinds of data reflects the knowledge of experienced archaeologists. AI learns not only the appearance of sites but also their usual locations. Sites are often near rivers or on hills. AI models identify places that probably need exploring. As Dr. Alexandra Karamitrou of the University of Southampton observed, “AI isn’t perfect, but it can save archaeologists time, energy, and resources.”
This efficiency is especially valuable in regions where traditional fieldwork is challenging, whether due to conflict, inaccessible terrain, or environmental hazards. AI offers a way to continue uncovering history, even in the face of such obstacles.
Preserving the Past for Future Generations
The Nazca Lines show human cleverness and creativity. A society created them, and their art still lives on. Modern technology helps uncover their secrets. Safeguarding these treasures holds great—vital—importance. AI operates swiftly and widely, allowing researchers to concentrate on protection before harm occurs.
As we look to the future, the role of AI in archaeology is set to expand. From locating sunken shipwrecks to predicting the impact of climate change on historic sites, the potential applications are vast. However, as Sakai rightly points out, AI is a tool, not a substitute for human judgment. The continued collaboration between technology and expertise will be crucial in unraveling humanity’s shared history, ensuring that we all play a part in this thrilling adventure.
Alson Read: Artificial Intelligence Unveils 303 New Nazca Geoglyphs in Peru
The Nazca Lines and other archaeological wonders continue to reveal their stories, reminding us of the enduring connections between past and present. AI assists in the thrilling adventure of learning about and preserving these cultural treasures. This fresh collaboration honors the creativity of past individuals. Their legacy holds great importance for the future.
