Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines. Stretching on for miles, the Nazca Lines were made many, many years ago, but for what purpose? What could drive people to make such an impressive mark on history? There are many theories, theories such as the lines being an astronomical calendar, or that it was an offering to the gods in the sky, some people even say the lines are alien landing strips! Whatever the theory, one thing is certain: The Nazca Lines are unlike any other.

The Nazcas created arguably one of the greatest mysteries of all time: The Nazca Lines. But just who were the Nazcas? The Nazcas were an American Indian culture, living around 100BC-AD800. They resided in the Nazca Desert, a coastal desert in southern Peru. They made lots of artwork, and constantly used animals in their art. They, like most cultures, had a unique drawing style and used lots of color in their pottery. They farmed 31 miles inland of the Nazca River. Later, farmland became sacred land because of the natural springs. They were quite advanced, using irrigation systems and burying their dead. They had many complex religious practices such as masked ritual performances and dances for their gods. Ellie Crystal, a researcher, talks about the three stages of the Nazcas: “In general, Nazca culture is considered to consist of three stages; Early, Middle, and Late stages, and also the Classic Nazca (approximately A.D. 250-750). One of the most famous and distinctive features of the Nazca culture is the polychrome pottery which has attracted attention because of its technological refinement and the exciting symbolism of its motifs. This pottery culture spreads in the area of the valleys of Chincha, Pisco, Ica, Nazca and Acari.” (Ellie Crystal, http://www.crystalinks.com/nazca.html)

Of course, location played a vital role in the making of the Nazca Lines. Being in the desert, the lines have many different factors affecting them. The Nazca Desert has very dry climates, little rain, and little wind. This ensures that the lines won’t get washed or blown away by forces of nature. The desert has no hills, and flat, stony ground. This greatly minimized the wind effects on the desert. There is nearly 400 square miles of desert, which consists of a darker soil with a lighter colored sub-soil underneath. This desert is the ideal place for anyone who wants to make their mark on history.