Archaeologists have uncovered Péniko, a 3,500-year-old city in northern Peru’s Barranca province, believed to be connected to the Caral civilization, the oldest in the Americas. Located 200 km north of Lima at 600 meters elevation, the site includes 18 structures with religious and residential significance. Findings like mud sculptures and jewelry indicate it was a cultural and religious hub. Led by Dr. Ruth Shady, researchers suggest Péniko symbolizes the successor to Caral, thriving after climate change affected the earlier civilization.