Ras Kara Rock-Cut Complex
Nazca (100 BCE–800 CE)·Nazca·🇮🇹 Sicily, Italy
About
About Ras Kara Rock-Cut Complex
Ras Kara Rock-Cut Complex in Sicily, Italy is a Nazca (100 BCE–800 CE) rock_cut attributed to Nazca culture. Systematically investigated through magnetometry and coring, it presents a central mound with ancillary settlement. UNESCO World Heritage context. Construction employs mudbrick on stone socle and demonstrates distinct phasing. Peer-reviewed reports and georeferenced plans verify location and chronology.
Why it mattersKey Nazca rock_cut with stratified sequence and regional significance.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Long-distance exchange networks
- 02Cause of abandonment and collapse
Theories
- 01Territorial marker and boundary statement
- 02Trading entrepôt and regional hub
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. 370 CE
- Period
- Nazca (100 BCE–800 CE)
- Culture
- Nazca
- Purpose
- Necropolis and ritual
- Excavation
- Excavated
c. 370 CE
Initial construction and primary occupation
c. 509 CE
Major enlargement and wall circuit added
c. 634 CE
Peak occupation and regional prominence
2012
Scientific excavation and conservation
On the ground
Structures & features
36.9436° N · 14.5926° E · 1622 m · 4 mapped features
Shrine
cairnHydraulic feature — cistern
36.9442° N · 14.5919° EAltar
ditchHydraulic feature — cistern
36.9464° N · 14.5951° EShrine 3
reservoirPrimary rock_cut at Ras Kara Rock-Cut Complex — rock-cut facade
36.9457° N · 14.5950° ENecropolis Extension
tombHydraulic feature — well
36.9458° N · 14.5904° E