Huaricanga is the earliest city of the Norte Chico civilization, called Caral or Caral-Supe in Peru and Spanish language sources.
Excavation in 2007 revealed a structure believed to be a temple, of a design similar to, but predating, the Mito architectural tradition seen in the Peruvian highlands.
In addition, later research in the Fortaleza and Pativilca valleys has found evidence of maize cultivation, as well as fourteen other domesticated species of fruits and vegetables.
Approximately 5000 years ago, the Norte Chico region gave rise to the first civilization in the Americas, also known as Caral-Supe or Caral.
North American researchers have also joined in conducting archeological excavations, investigating the region, and publicizing the work in English-language sources.
Some experts theorize that an increased frequency of the weather phenomenon El Niño worsened fishing conditions, driving people inland towards sites such as Huaricanga.
The 2007 excavation uncovered evidence of a structure that consisted of a two-level floor, a surrounding bench, a central fire pit, and walls with niches.
The reasons why so many South American ancient civilizations emerged in Peru in the Late Archaic period has long been a topic of debate.
Many historians believed that the nearby marine resources were the catalyst to the rapid cultural development in the Andean region of Peru, which is different from the reliance of most original civilizations on cultivation of agriculture and production of surpluses.
Researchers looked at microscopic evidence found in prehistoric soil samples, stone tools, and coprolites (fossilized fecal matter).