Authorities have launched an investigation after obscene graffiti was discovered at a famous archaeological site in Peru that has been undergoing excavation.
On the 13th (local time), the Peruvian Ministry of Culture stated in a press release that "someone has drawn a depiction of a male genitalia with black aerosol spray on the walls of the Chan Chan archaeological site in the La Libertad region" and confirmed that at least three walls have been damaged. The ministry is currently mobilizing experts to begin restoration efforts for the site.
On social media, a video surfaced showing a person, presumed to be male, graffitiing while carrying a bag. In response, local authorities noted, "This is a serious lack of respect for a culture that is over 600 years old, and it is a very horrific act," stating that they are working closely with the police to identify the suspect.
The damaged site of Chan Chan is known as the largest city in South America, flourishing before the encounter with European civilization. Academic estimates suggest that about 30,000 people lived in this area during the 15th century.
Chan Chan, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986, is an archaeological site where the Peruvian government has invested significant time in excavating and restoring artifacts alongside Machu Picchu, a representative site of the Inca civilization. Currently, it is located 5 km west of Trujillo by administrative standards.
Peruvian authorities are strengthening their preservation efforts. In response to this incident, they are considering various protective measures, including installing a large perimeter fence in the area and potentially proceeding with highway construction near the Chan Chan archaeological site.