In Chile’s arid Atacama Desert, near the town of Huara, there is an impressive ancient work called the Atacama Giant. This figure, carved from the natural rock of the mountain, represents a stylized humanoid that spans 119 meters. The figure is so large that it can only be fully appreciated from the air.
In this article we will explore the history of this mythical sculptureas well as its meaning and impact in the Atacama region and beyond.
The story behind the Atacama Giant
According to researchers, it is estimated that the Atacama Giant, also called the Tarapacá Giant or the Cerro Unita Geoglyph, was created more than 1000 years ago by the inhabitants prehispanic in the region. The Atacameños, as they are known, were an indigenous culture that inhabited northern Chile and southern Bolivia from the 12th century until the arrival of the Spaniards in the 16th century.
According to the opinion of various experts, it is one of many geoglyphs found in the area, very similar to the famous lineages of Nazca and those of Palpa, located in southern Peru. For some experts, these figures were built for religious or ceremonial purposes.
Aerial view of the giant Atacama.
What does the large figure mean?
Its true meaning remains a mystery, so far its exact purpose is completely unknown. Even if some scholars have suggested that the figure represents to a god or leader of the Atacameño culture. While others say it could have been some sort of map or guidebook for travelers in the desert.
There are also those who claim that it could be related to astronomy. The Atacama Desert is one of the darkest places in the world, making it an ideal place for stargazing.
The people of this ancient Chilean region were known for their knowledge of astronomy, and many scholars in the field have argued that, Through the Atacama Giant, the way of representing the constellations or the planets is sought..
One of the most popular theories regarding the huge geoglyph is that it is an alien. Proponents of this approach point out the unusual characteristics of the anthropomorphic figurefor example its small size, its large head and its unique structure.
The Atacama Giant is also known as the Tarapacá Giant or the Geoglyph of Cerro Unita.
For some scholars, the Atacama Giant is a representation of a pre-Inca shaman, who was depicted holding a bag and an arrow.
Other experts consider the square head to be, in fact, a representation of a jaguar mask; some have even found a resemblance to a robot’s head, and that the mysterious “antennae” protruding from the head are representations of “magic lightning.” Likewise, other scholars suggest that the ancients used them as an astronomical calendar that helped them predict seasons and rainfall.
Besides, it’s no secret that the Atacama Desert is a place where there have been sightings of UFOs and other paranormal phenomena, as published by various news media. A fact that has lasted for a long time.
Another hypothesis suggests that the Atacama giant is some sort of human-alien hybrid. This theory is based on the idea that beings from other worlds have been visiting Earth for centuries and interacting with humans. Some believe that this structure is proof that these encounters resulted in the creation of hybrid beings.
The impact of the world’s largest prehistoric geoglyph in the region
The Atacama Giant, it is now one of the main tourist attractions in the region, and attracts visitors from all over the world. Additionally, it has had a significant impact on the local community, which has seen an increase in tourism and the economy due to the attention the town has received.
However, there have also been concerns about the preservation of the site. Due to the difficulty of access to the area, the giant geoglyph has been vandalized and looting in the past.
This is why, in 2018, conservation work was carried out in order to protect the site and ensure its preservation for future generations.
You might also be interested in: The mysterious giant figure that can be seen from space.
Although its exact purpose remains unknown, it is considered an impressive art exhibition and the creativity of the ancient cultures that inhabited the region. Moreover, it has had a significant impact on the whole region, attracting visitors from all over the world and contributing to the local economy.
Such is the case, that it was even part of a tunic used by Pope Francis in 2018 during the visit of the Sovereign Pontiff to Chile.
The Atacama giant was depicted on the central hilt of the chasuble that Pope Francis would wear during his visit to Chile.
This geoglyph has become one of the main testimonies of the rich history and culture of the Atacama region in Chile. Its imposing size and its remoteness make it an ancient wonder of the worldespecially for those who wish to explore the history and culture of ancient South American civilizations.
References: BBC/History.
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