Montegrande: Ancient Amazonian Temple Reveals World’s First Cacao Cultivation

Nestled in the high heart of the Peruvian Amazon, the Montegrande archaeological site is unraveling mysteries of ancient civilizations and their relationship with nature and the origin of cacao. EcoJustice Radio host Jack Eidt spoke with Karen Gordon, an associate at ASICAMPE, the nonprofit organization dedicated to scientific research in the Peruvian Amazon. They explored the significance of Montegrande, a site that has revealed traces of cacao in 6,000-year-old ceremonial pottery vessels, making it the oldest known monumental temple site in Peru.

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Ancient Roots of Cacao: the Montegrade Archaeological Site in Peru

In this episode, host Jack Eidt delves into the groundbreaking archaeological discoveries at the Huaca Montegrande site in the Peruvian Amazon with guest Karen Gordon, an associate at ASICAMPE, the nonprofit Association for Scientific Research of the Peruvian Amazon [https://abundantearthfoundation.org/ancientcacao/]. They explore the ancient Marañon culture, their sophisticated agroforestry practices, and the origins of cacao, the plant responsible for the world’s chocolate. Traces of cacao have been found in 6,000-year-old ceremonial pottery vessels from what is now recognized as the oldest monumental temple site in Peru, predating the pyramids of Egypt or Mesopotamia. Tune in to learn how these findings are rewriting the history of organized human settlement and spirituality in the ancient Amazon.

Unveiling the Marañon Culture

The Marañon culture, which thrived 3,000 years before the more well-studied Inca and Nazca cultures, is at the center of these discoveries. Contrary to the long-held belief that Amazonian cultures were simple hunter-gatherers, evidence from Monte Grande points to a highly organized society engaged in sophisticated agroforestry practices, fine pottery creation, and spiritual ceremonies.

One of the most astonishing findings is the domestication and veneration of cacao. The site has yielded ceremonial vessels containing cacao beverage residues dating back at least 5,300 years. This positions the Marañon culture as the earliest known stewards of cacao, predating the Olmec and other Mesoamerican cultures traditionally credited with its origin.

A Living Temple Space

Karen Gordon emphasized that Montegrande is more than just an archaeological site; it is a living temple space with a history spanning over 6,000 years. Nominated as one of the Top 10 Archaeological Discoveries in the World, the excavation has uncovered a massive pyramid, constructed from clay, stone, and reed, with a mysterious stone spiral at its summit. This spiral, one of humanity’s most ancient symbols, signifies the endless cycle of life and creation.

The temple’s construction showcases a deep connection between the people and their environment. Stones from distant rivers and the high Andes were brought to the site, symbolizing a balance between the masculine and feminine energies of water and mountains. This intricate design reflects the Marañon culture’s cosmology and spiritual practices.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite its significance, the Montegrande project faces numerous challenges, particularly in terms of funding. ASICAMPE, a small nonprofit organization, is at risk of having to halt the excavation due to financial constraints. If the project is stopped, Peruvian law mandates that the site be reburied, a process that would undo years of meticulous work.

To prevent this, ASICAMPE is seeking international support and partnerships. They have teamed up with the Abundant Earth Foundation, allowing for 501(c)(3) donations to support the ongoing excavation and conservation efforts.

Connecting Past and Present

Montegrande’s discoveries are not just about understanding the past; they have profound implications for the present and future. The genetic profile of cacao trees in the region matches that of the ancient cacao found in the temple, highlighting the continuity of this relationship through millennia. Protecting these ancient agroforestry systems is crucial for preserving the genetic diversity and cultural heritage of the Amazon.

As we continue to uncover the secrets of Montegrande, we are reminded of the deep connections between humans and nature. This site is a testament to the ingenuity and spirituality of ancient cultures, offering valuable lessons for our modern world.

To learn more about Montegrande and support the project, visit the ASICAMPE website and follow their updates on social media. Together, we can ensure that this extraordinary chapter of human history remains uncovered and celebrated.

STORY: Amazon Defenders: Rainforest Biodiversity and Big Oil with Paul Paz y Miño

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Resources/Articles:
https://inboundperu.com/2022/03/11/the-world-will-get-to-know-huaca-montegrande-where-historys-oldest-cacao-was-found%ef%bf%bc/8644/

Ancient Builders of the Amazon on Nova PBS: https://youtu.be/dY82nZTxXQ4?si=UcvfsGJtvJQY_GAs

Karen Gordon – Equal parts soul-filled and inspired educator, Karen’s work as a restoration ecologist and land steward has spanned California’s Channel Islands to the Peruvian Amazon for the last 30 years. She has called Costa Rica’s cloud forested mountaintops home for the last two decades. ASICAMPE is a small Peruvian nonprofit research organization led by Dr. Quirino Olivera; making significant contributions to Amazonian and world history. Nevertheless, the Huaca Montegrande project, destined to become and UNESCO World Heritage Site, faces multiple threats and requires protection to continue their work. For more information and to support their work: https://abundantearthfoundation.org/ancientcacao/

Musical interludes by Oscar Jimenez Fernandez. IG: @oscarjimenezfdc

Jack Eidt is an urban planner, environmental journalist, and climate organizer, as well as award-winning fiction writer. He is Co-Founder of SoCal 350 Climate Action and Executive Producer and Co-Host of EcoJustice Radio. He writes a column on PBS SoCal called High & Dry [https://www.pbssocal.org/people/high-dry]. He is also Founder and Publisher of WilderUtopia [https://wilderutopia.com], a website dedicated to the question of Earth sustainability, finding society-level solutions to environmental, community, economic, transportation and energy needs.

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Executive Producer and Host: Jack Eidt
Engineer and Original Music: Blake Quake Beats
Episode 237
Photo credit: ASICAMPE

Updated 3 December 2024