CNN —Archaeologists in Peru have unearthed the remains of what they believe are a 4,000-year-old temple and theater, shining a new light on the origins of complex religions in the region. The finds predate the country’s best-known archaeological site, the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, which is believed to have been built by the Inca Empire in the 15th century, by about 3,500 years. All we know about them comes from what they created: their houses, temples, and funerary goods,” Muro Ynoñan said. Muro Ynoñán collected samples from paint pigments that he said he plans to analyze in a lab, as well as send samples off for carbon dating to confirm the age of the site. In August, Peruvian archaeologists unearthed a 3,000-year-old tomb that they believe might have honored an elite religious leader.

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Persons: ” Luis Muro Ynoñán, Muro Ynoñán, ”, ” Muro Ynoñan, Muro Ynoñan, ” Muro Ynoñán Organizations: CNN, Archaeologists, Field Museum, Peru's Pontifical Catholic University, Reuters, Reuters Archaeologists Locations: Peru, La Otra, Cerro Las Animas, Peruvian, Zaña, Chicago , Illinois, Peru's, Machu Picchu, Inca, Lima