The excavation took place during the fourth research season of the Vir\u00fa Valley Archaeological Project. It revealed three enclosures with notable architectural features. Among them were well-preserved floors, benches, niches, and spinning tools. Researchers also uncovered a larger courtyard-like space with an altar or podium. They identified several remodeling phases as well, suggesting the building remained important over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n According to project director Feren Castillo, the scale and quality of the construction point to a residence built for someone of high status. Thick walls, fine plaster finishes, and the monumentality of the architecture all support the idea that this was an important elite complex within the Vir\u00fa world.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the most intriguing finds was a fragment of a clay model showing architectural details similar to those uncovered at the site. Castillo said the piece may help researchers better understand how the Vir\u00fa planned and represented their buildings between A.D. 100 and 700.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The excavation could help resolve a long-running debate over the site\u2019s cultural identity. Based on the materials and architectural evidence, the research team says the site belongs to the Vir\u00fa period. That supports an earlier interpretation. It also rejects a later theory that linked the site to the Moche. Castillo also plans to submit a report to Peru\u2019s Ministry of Culture. He is seeking formal recognition of the area as the Cerro Blanco Archaeological Site.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Feren](\"https:\/\/www.fertur-travel.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/viru-artifacts-300x208.jpg\")
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