Peru identifies illegal mining near Nasca archaeological sites

The Peruvian Ministry of Culture has identified illegal mining activities within the Bogotalla-Tulin Archaeological Landscape, located in the Nasca province. An inspection by the Ica Decentralized Culture Directorate revealed infrastructure linked to mining, including mineral deposits, heavy machinery, electrical generators, and a camp. The site also features a 500-meter path leading to a mine entrance. These excavations are causing surface alterations and visual impacts on the landscape, with the nearest geoglyph located approximately 70 meters from the activity.

In response to these threats, Deputy Carlos Alberto Zegarra Sánchez met with Culture Minister Alberto Beingolea to discuss the protection of archaeological zones in Ica. Zegarra emphasized the need for stronger institutional presence and measures to prevent invasions and occupations that jeopardize the Nasca lines. Minister Beingolea acknowledged that such invasions are a national issue and stated that the ministry is developing an integral strategy to defend archaeological sites and coordinate with other institutions to address territorial and patrimonial concerns.