A revolutionary project recently emerged in Peru, where Japanese scientists used theartificial intelligence to discover 303 new engravings in the famous Nazca Desert. This represents a doubling of the number of known geoglyphs, dating back around 2,000 years, made by a fascinating pre-Inca civilization.

The enigma of the Nazca Lines

The Nazca Lines are massive incisions in the ground, representing various animals, plants, imaginary beings and geometric figures. Located approximately 350 kilometers south of Lima, these mysterious geoglyphs have attracted the interest of researchers since their discovery in the 1920s. Their visibility is optimal from the air, making them a major tourist destination in Peru.

A breakthrough thanks to artificial intelligence

During a recent announcement in Lima, archaeologist Masato Sakai from Yamagata University highlighted the importance of using AI in archaeological research.

• Increased precision: AI has made it possible to map geoglyphs faster and more accurately.
• Innovative collaboration: This project is the result of a collaboration between the Nazca Institute and the IBM research division.
• Limited traditional methods: Methods for visual analysis of high-resolution images were slow and could overlook some cases.

These findings were documented in the prestigious journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS). The study indicates that it took almost a century to identify 430 figurative geoglyphs, while AI made it possible to discover 303 more in just six months of field research.

The particularities of the new figures

The AI ​​model was particularly effective in identifying relief-type geoglyphs, which are often small and difficult to observe. Among the discoveries, scientists found:

• Giant linear geoglyphs: Mainly depicting wild animals.
• Smaller patterns: Including abstract humanoid forms and domesticated camelids, such as llamas.

Researchers used artificial intelligence to analyze large volumes of geospatial data obtained by aerial surveys, aiming to locate more hidden geoglyphs. This technological advancement opens up new perspectives for modern archaeology, showing how AI can revolutionize the way we discover our past.

A mysterious heritage

The Nazca civilization, which flourished in southwestern Peru between 200 BC and 700 AD, remains a mystery. The reasons which prompted them to create these lines, now classified as UNESCO world heritage sites, continue to spark debate. Several theories emerge:

• A religious or astrological meaning.
• Ritual practices linked to water.

These fascinating geoglyphs not only represent a unique cultural heritage, but they also stimulate the curiosity of researchers and visitors around the world.

Conclusion

Recent discoveries at Nazca illustrate how technological innovation, such as artificial intelligence, can transform our understanding of history. This collaboration between archaeologists and technologists reminds us of the importance of the interdisciplinary approach in researching ancient civilizations and the mysteries they left behind. Thanks to these advances, we can hope to unlock new secrets from our past.

More information: Masato Sakai et al, AI-accelerated survey of Nazca nearly doubles number of known figurative geoglyphs and sheds light on their purpose, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2024). DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2407652121

Journal information: Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences

Photo credit: Masato Sakai