High in the Peruvian Andes, nestled on Monte Sierpe (“Serpent Mountain”), lies a puzzling monument: nearly 5,200 holes meticulously arranged in ordered grids. These mysterious “Band of Holes,” first documented in the 1930s, have baffled archaeologists for decades. Now, a new study offers compelling evidence that these ancient divots may have served as a bustling barter market and accounting hub centuries ago.
The site, stretching over half a mile long, features clusters of holes ranging from 3 to 6 feet across and up to 3 feet deep. Some are lined with stones, adding further intrigue. Monte Sierpe sits near pre-Hispanic defensive structures and crossroads predating Spanish colonization in the 16th century, suggesting its significance as a focal point even before the Inca Empire’s rise.
Over the years, theories about the holes’ purpose have ranged from defense mechanisms to water storage and even fog harvesting. But drone technology has finally provided crucial insights into this enigmatic landscape. Researchers from the University of South Florida and the University of Sydney used drones to capture detailed aerial images, revealing a mathematical order in the layout of the holes that resembled accounting practices of the time.
Further investigation yielded compelling clues within the holes themselves. Analysis of sediment and plant remnants revealed pollen from maize, a staple crop, as well as bulrush, which was traditionally used for weaving baskets in Chincha society. The presence of these specific pollen types suggests deliberate human intervention: crops were placed within the holes, likely using woven containers or bundles.
This discovery strongly points to Monte Sierpe functioning as a barter marketplace under the powerful Chincha Kingdom (circa 1000-1400 AD), which boasted a population exceeding 100,000. Barter markets were common in the Andean region, and neighboring communities might have converged on Monte Sierpe for trade.
Adding another layer of complexity, the drone images revealed striking similarities between the arrangement of holes and Inca khipus— knotted cord systems used for record-keeping. These khipus are often associated with grid-like storage spaces in Inca settlements, hinting at a dual purpose: facilitating transactions and meticulous accounting.
The subtle variations in the number of holes within each block might even reflect varying tribute levels from surrounding towns once the Inca conquered the Chincha Kingdom in the 15th century.
This groundbreaking research sheds new light on ancient Andean societies and their sophisticated practices for managing resources and trade. It demonstrates how seemingly mundane features like these enigmatic holes can hold profound clues about complex social interactions, economic systems, and innovative record-keeping methods that thrived centuries ago.
