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Peru's Mysterious 'Band of Holes' Explained — green and brown mountain under white sky during daytime

Peru's Mysterious 'Band of Holes' ExplainedCEFR A2

24 Nov 2025

Adapted from U. South Florida, Futurity CC BY 4.0

Photo by Anna Mircea, Unsplash

AI-assisted adaptation of the original article, simplified for language learners.

The Band of Holes is a site in southern Peru with many carved pits. Archaeologists recently discovered that these holes were likely part of an Indigenous system for trade and counting. This site was first seen in photographs in 1933. Before this study, scientists had many theories about its purpose.

The research team used plant analysis to study samples from the holes. They found remains of crops like maize. The team also took aerial photos to see how the holes were organized. They looked at patterns that were similar to Inca counting systems.

Difficult words

  • archaeologistA person who studies ancient cultures.
    Archaeologists
  • discoveredFound something new or unknown.
  • systemA way of organizing different parts.
  • analysisA detailed examination of something.
  • remainsWhat's left of something after parts are gone.
  • maizeA type of grain, often called corn.
  • patternsRepeated designs or forms.

Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.

Discussion questions

  • Why do you think the Band of Holes was important for trade?
  • How might the findings about maize affect our understanding of Indigenous cultures?
  • What role do you think aerial photos play in archaeological research?

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