Outrage over Vandalism at Chan Chan, Peru's UNESCO Heritage Site
Peru faces widespread outrage following the vandalism of the ancient archaeological site Chan Chan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest city in pre-Columbian America. The site, located 300 miles north of Lima, was defaced by graffiti, including crude images and obscene symbols, on one of its original walls. Video footage of the incident circulated on social media shows a man spray-painting the wall, which has provoked strong condemnation from Peru's Ministry of Culture. The ministry emphasized that the act represents a serious violation of regulations protecting national heritage, and the suspect could face up to six years in prison once identified. This incident has raised concerns about security measures at the site, which attracts thousands of visitors monthly. The vandalism is part of a series of recent attacks on Peru's cultural landmarks, including the damage to Cusco's 12-Angle Stone. Experts and the public expressed disappointment over the insufficient protection of these historic sites, with some questioning how the vandal was able to commit the act without challenge. UNESCO describes Chan Chan as a sprawling adobe city with intricate designs, serving as the capital of the ChimĂș kingdom before its conquest by the Incas in the 15th century.
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