Chankillo fortress & temple
Unexplained Places Around the World
Chankillo is an ancient monumental complex located in the coastal desert of Peru, about 400 km north of Lima. It is composed of a fortified temple and a solar observatory, dating back to the 4th century BCE. The site comprises thirteen towers aligned along a ridge.
More about Chankillo fortress & temple
Chankillo's thirteen towers are arranged to mark the annual solar cycle, making it one of the earliest known solar observatories. The fortress includes defensive features such as walls and battlements. Visitors can access the site via local tours from nearby towns, with some areas requiring moderate hiking. The UNESCO World Heritage site offers insight into early astronomical practices.