SMRTR Science & EngineeringOct 12, 2024Interesting Engineering

1,000-year-old geoglyphs in Atacama Desert destroyed by off-road racers: Report

SMRTR summary

Off-road vehicles and extreme sports are causing irreversible damage to ancient geoglyphs in Chile's Atacama Desert. Quadbikes, 4x4s, and motorcycles have destroyed artworks carved between 900-1450 CE, despite conservation efforts and potential fines of $14,500 for damaging archaeological sites. Authorities are working to raise awareness among rally enthusiasts to protect these fragile desert treasures.

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