Shikras of Caral

Shikras of Caral.

The Shikras were mainly used as a Caral-Supe dampening system, one of the oldest known civilizations in America. The primary goal was to protect these structures from the destructive forces of earthquakes, which are relatively common in the region due to their location along the boundaries of the tectonic plates.

The shikras were built by weaving baskets of vegetable fibers, such as cotton or vegetable materials. These baskets were filled with stones, creating a compact and flexible structure.

The key to shikra's effectiveness in resistance to earthquakes lies in its flexibility. When an earthquake struck, the stones inside the baskets would move and move, absorbing and dispersing seismic energy. This prevented buildings from experiencing excessive structural stress, reducing the risk of collapse.

The use of shikras dates back over 5,000 years, making it one of the first known anti-seismic techniques in the world. It precedes the famous Inca civilization by a few millennia.

Archaeological excavations at Caral-Supe have unearthed examples of these shikras, providing valuable insights into the engineering prowess of this ancient civilization.

Although shikras are no longer used in contemporary construction due to advances in seismic engineering, their historical significance has not been forgotten. They serve as testimony to the innovation and adaptability of ancient cultures to natural challenges.