Kotosh Archaeological Site — Temple of the Crossed Hands
Kotosh · Templo de las Manos Cruzadas
Late Archaic–Initial 2300–1200 BCE·Kotosh–Mito tradition·🇵🇪 Huánuco, Peru
About
About Kotosh Archaeological Site — Temple of the Crossed Hands
Highland temple sequence Temple of Crossed Hands c.1800 BCE with modeled crossed hands in sunken court, 10 superimposed Mito temples 2300–1200 BCE. Recorded context — Period: Late Archaic–Initial 2300–1200 BCE; Culture: Kotosh–Mito tradition; Field status: partially excavated; Materials: fieldstone, mud plaster; Condition: ruins.
Why it mattersArchaeological landmark for Kotosh–Mito tradition in Huánuco; type-site demonstrating superimposed hearth-temples and regional exchange.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Function and chronology of Kotosh Archaeological Site — Temple of the Crossed Hands within Late Archaic–Initial 2300–1200 BCE
- 02Relationship to neighboring polities
Theories
- 01Kotosh–Mito tradition ceremonial center for superimposed hearth-temples
- 02Regional capital controlling trade and tribute network
Theories are interpretations, not findings. The seal above tells you how much scholarly weight the place carries.
History
How it came to be
- Built
- c.2300–1200 BCE
- Period
- Late Archaic–Initial 2300–1200 BCE
- Culture
- Kotosh–Mito tradition
- Builders
- Highland Mito builders
- Purpose
- Superimposed hearth-temples
- Rediscovered
- 1960 Izumi
- Excavation
- Partially excavated
c.2300–1200 BCE
Kotosh Archaeological Site — Temple of the Crossed Hands construction phase
20th century
Modern excavations
On the ground
Structures & features
Gallery