Sechín Bajo is an archaeological site located on the northern coast of Peru. It is known for the remains of a pre-Columbian ceremonial center and one of the earliest monumental constructions in the Americas. The site is associated with the Casma/Sechín culture, which existed during the Late Archaic period and the Early Formative period, around 3500 BCE to 1800 BCE.

Key features and information about Sechín Bajo:

1. Location:
   • Sechín Bajo is situated in the Casma Valley, in the Ancash Region of Peru. The site is located near the modern town of Casma.
2. Ceremonial Center:
   • The primary feature of Sechín Bajo is its ceremonial center, which includes a massive stone platform with intricate carvings. The platform is surrounded by a complex of walls, plazas, and structures.
3. Monumental Architecture:
   • The most notable structure at Sechín Bajo is a massive temple platform known as the “Temple of the Crossed Hands.” The temple is characterized by large stone carvings depicting anthropomorphic figures with crossed arms. The carvings are associated with themes of warfare and sacrifice.
4. Carvings and Iconography:
   • The carvings at Sechín Bajo depict scenes of warriors, decapitation, and human sacrifice. The imagery is considered one of the earliest examples of monumental art in the Andean region.
5. Oldest Monumental Architecture:
   • Sechín Bajo is recognized as one of the oldest examples of monumental architecture in the Americas. The construction of the temple platform and associated structures represents a significant achievement in early Andean civilization.
6. Archaeological Investigations:
   • Archaeological investigations at Sechín Bajo have revealed multiple construction phases, indicating that the site underwent periods of modification and expansion over time. Excavations have also uncovered burials and artifacts associated with the ancient inhabitants.
7. Casma/Sechín Culture:
   • The Casma/Sechín culture is associated with a group of pre-Columbian societies that inhabited the Casma Valley. The culture is recognized for its early monumental architecture and complex social organization.
8. Timeline:
   • The construction of Sechín Bajo is estimated to have occurred during the Late Archaic period, making it one of the oldest ceremonial centers in the Andean region.
9. Symbolic Meaning:
   • The carvings and iconography at Sechín Bajo are believed to have held symbolic and religious significance, possibly related to rituals associated with warfare and the supernatural.
10. Tourism:
    • Sechín Bajo is open to visitors, and the site attracts tourists and archaeology enthusiasts interested in exploring the early history of the Andean civilizations.

Sechín Bajo provides valuable insights into the cultural and architectural developments of early Andean societies. The site’s monumental architecture and unique carvings contribute to the understanding of the complex cultural practices and beliefs of the ancient Casma/Sechín culture.