Tumulus of Lowfield Kurgan
Byzantine (330–1453 CE)·Byzantine·🇨🇱 Coquimbo, Chile
About
About Tumulus of Lowfield Kurgan
Tumulus of Lowfield Kurgan in Coquimbo, Chile is a Byzantine (330–1453 CE) tumulus attributed to Byzantine culture. Systematically investigated through photogrammetry and coring, it presents a fortified nucleus with workshop zone. Construction employs ashlar with clamp and demonstrates craft specialization. Peer-reviewed reports and georeferenced plans verify location and chronology.
Why it mattersKey Byzantine tumulus with stratified sequence and regional significance.
Open questions
Mysteries & theories
Mysteries
- 01Function as ceremonial vs domestic centre
- 02Construction labor organization and logistics
Theories
- 01Defensive refuge and tribal capital
- 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. 618 CE
- Period
- Byzantine (330–1453 CE)
- Culture
- Byzantine
- Purpose
- Agricultural and hydraulic
- Excavation
- Excavation ongoing
c. 618 CE
Initial construction and primary occupation
c. 752 CE
Major enlargement and wall circuit added
c. 987 CE
Peak occupation and regional prominence
2009
Scientific excavation and conservation
On the ground
Structures & features
30.7438° S · 72.4356° W · 1387 m · 3 mapped features
Enclosure Wall
platformPrimary tumulus at Tumulus of Lowfield Kurgan — ceremonial avenue
30.7451° S · 72.4339° WOutlier Panel
hydraulicBurial zone — rock-cut chambers
30.7460° S · 72.4360° WNecropolis Extension
reservoirOutlier feature with petroglyphs
30.7425° S · 72.4384° W