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Why is Caral considered an important ancient site in the Americas?

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Flag of Peru with three vertical stripes, red on each side and white in the center, and a central coat of arms featuring a vicuña, cinchona tree, and cornucopia.
Peru

Caral is considered a highly significant ancient site in the Americas because it is recognized as the oldest center of civilization in the Western Hemisphere. Located in the Supe River valley of Peru, radiocarbon dating has established that the city was constructed between 3000 and 2000 BCE.1

As a central settlement of the ancient Caral-Supe culture, the site features an extensive architectural complex that includes six pyramids arranged around a central courtyard, as well as the remains of an amphitheater and various housing complexes. Due to its immense historical and archaeological importance, Caral was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2009.1