Reservoir of Broch Fen
Mississippian (800–1600 CE)·Mississippian·🇧🇴 Oruro, Bolivia
About
About Reservoir of Broch Fen
Reservoir of Broch Fen in Oruro, Bolivia is a Mississippian (800–1600 CE) hydraulic attributed to Mississippian culture. Systematically investigated through ground-penetrating radar and stratigraphic excavation, it presents a monumental core with workshop zone. Construction employs dry-stone masonry and demonstrates distinct phasing. Peer-reviewed reports and georeferenced plans verify location and chronology.
Why it mattersKey Mississippian hydraulic with stratified sequence and regional significance.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Long-distance exchange networks
- 02Population scale vs catchment
Theories
- 01Astronomical observatory and calendar
- 02Territorial marker and boundary statement
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. 946 CE
- Period
- Mississippian (800–1600 CE)
- Culture
- Mississippian
- Purpose
- Necropolis and ritual
- Excavation
- Unexcavated
c. 946 CE
Initial construction and primary occupation
c. 1111 CE
Major enlargement and wall circuit added
c. 1242 CE
Peak occupation and regional prominence
1952
Scientific excavation and conservation
On the ground
Structures & features
17.2901° S · 69.8466° W · 1131 m · 4 mapped features
Necropolis Extension
galleryPrimary hydraulic at Reservoir of Broch Fen — platform mound
17.2894° S · 69.8437° WOutlier Panel
tombBurial zone — cists
17.2916° S · 69.8454° WHydraulic Channel
templeOutlier feature with cup marks
17.2929° S · 69.8480° WAltar
alignmentOutlier feature with alignments
17.2889° S · 69.8480° W