Latest news with #Incas
The Guardian
15-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Guardian
Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado review – plucky teen explorer goes looking for lost Incan magic
If you have a bunch of eight-year-olds over for a sleepover and you're looking for something to stick on the TV, you could do worse than this straight-to-streaming live-action adaptation of the animated show Dora the Explorer. It's a follow-up of sorts to Dora and the Lost City of Gold from 2019, with a new star in the shape of Samantha Lorraine, and aimed at slightly older kids than the cartoon. There are action sequences looted from Raiders of the Lost Ark that had my eight-year-old squealing at the screen, though as it's determined to be undemanding and inoffensive, it's got that plasticky quality that middling kids' films tend to have. Lorraine plays Dora, a teenage explorer who's grown up in the Amazon, raised on her grandfather's stories about the Incas. For years, Dora has been searching for clues to find Sol Dorado, a legendary golden sun that will grant one wish, joined by her cousin Diego (Jacob Rodriguez). The scriptwriters deserve credit for resisting the temptation to bolt on a love interest; instead, we have cousin Diego in the role conventionally given to a female character: the pretty but non-essential sidekick. The movie's villain is celebrity archaeologist Camilla the Crusader (Daniella Pineda) who runs a theme park called Jungle World, where Dora and Diego have summer jobs. When the pair go off in search of Sol Dorado with their pals, Camilla dispatches a band of desperadoes to chase them through Inca tombs booby-trapped with giant bugs and spiked floors. The movie is not lacking in adventure, perhaps what's missing is a sense of fun. Dora didn't have the kids hooting with laughter like they did at the real Indiana Jones. Dora and the Search for Sol Dorado is on Paramount+ now.
India Today
05-07-2025
- Health
- India Today
Quinoa explained: Nutrition, cooking tips, and everyday uses
Once a staple crop of the ancient Incas, quinoa has re-emerged as a global superfood in recent years. Technically a seed but prepared like a grain, quinoa offers a unique blend of nutrients, including all nine essential amino acids, making it a rare plant-based complete IS QUINOA?Quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah) is a flowering plant native to the Andean region of South America. Though often referred to as a whole grain, it is actually a pseudocereal—a seed that is consumed like a cereal grain. It has been cultivated for over 5,000 years and played a central role in the diet of pre-Columbian are many varieties of quinoa, but the most common types available are white, red, and black. White quinoa has the mildest flavor and fluffiest texture when cooked, while red and black types offer nuttier tastes and slightly firmer PROFILE OF QUINOA Quinoa stands out among plant foods due to its rich nutrient content. A 1-cup serving (cooked) contains: 8 grams of protein5 grams of fiberIron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, and folateAntioxidants like quercetin and kaempferolWhat makes quinoa especially notable is that it's a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids—something uncommon in plant-based is naturally gluten-free, making it a valuable dietary option for people with celiac disease or gluten BENEFITS OF QUINOAQuinoa offers several health benefits thanks to its nutritional density:Supports muscle health and repair due to its complete protein profileAids digestion and gut health with its high fiber contentHelps maintain blood sugar levels with a low glycemic indexContributes to heart health through magnesium and antioxidant contentProvides sustained energy from complex carbohydrates and essential mineralsBecause of these qualities, quinoa is often recommended in balanced diets, especially for vegetarians, vegans, and those managing chronic conditions like diabetes or heart FOR COOKING QUINOA Quinoa is quick and easy to prepare—usually ready in about 15 minutes. Before cooking, it's best to rinse it under cold water to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can have a bitter cooking ratio1 cup of quinoa to 2 cups of water or brothBring to a boil, reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15 minutesadvertisementLet it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff with a forkYou can use quinoa in salads, soups, breakfast bowls, stir-fries, or as a substitute for rice or couscousHOW TO INCLUDE QUINOA IN YOUR DIET Quinoa is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideasAdd it to salads for extra proteinUse it as a base for grain bowlsMix into vegetable soups for added texturePrepare a breakfast porridge with milk, nuts, and fruitMake quinoa patties with herbs and spices as a plant-based burgerIts mild taste allows it to blend well with both sweet and savory QUINOA ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE?Quinoa's popularity has raised questions about sustainability and fair trade. Originally grown in Bolivia and Peru, high international demand led to changes in local food economics. However, efforts are being made to support ethical farming and diversified global production to ensure quinoa remains a sustainable crop. advertisementQuinoa is more than just a trendy health food—it's a nutrient-rich, adaptable, and culturally significant plant that fits into a wide range of diets. Whether you're seeking more plant-based proteins, managing dietary restrictions, or just adding variety to your meals, quinoa is a smart and satisfying choice.- Ends
Yahoo
27-06-2025
- Science
- Yahoo
Archaeologists Found a Lost Temple From a Civilization That Vanished 1,000 Years Ago
Here's what you'll learn when you read this story: The discovery of an ancient Tiwanaku temple in Bolivia is helping researchers paint a more complete picture of what the society once looked like. The Tiwanaku civilization was considered one of the continent's most powerful civilizations at its height. It mysteriously collapsed around 1000 A.D., and was in ruins by the 15th century. Researchers discovered ancient temple ruins in modern-day Bolivia that may help us to better understand the mysterious fall of the Tiwanaku civilization—once one of the most powerful in South America. The international team of researchers scoured the Andes and found a temple complex roughly 130 miles south of Tiwanaku's established historical site on the top of a hill. In a study published in Antiquity, the team wrote that the temple discovery could provide new details about the civilization, which was one of the first in the Andes and a powerful precursor to the Inca empire—until, that is, it mysteriously vanished about a thousand years ago. 'Their society collapsed sometime around 1000 A.D. and was a ruin by the time the Incas conquered the Andes in the 15th century,' Jose Capriles, Penn State associate professor of anthropology and the study's lead author, said in a statement. 'At its peak, it boasted a highly organized societal structure, leaving behind remnants of architectural monuments like pyramids, terraced temples, and monoliths, most of which are distributed in sites around Lake Titicaca and, while we know Tiwanaku's control and influence extended much further, scholars debate how much actual control over distant places it had.' Searching over 100 miles from what was considered the center of Tiwanaku land mades sense when looking at the history, Capriles said. During the height of the civilization, the unassuming hill location on which the complex was found connected three main trade routes: from the productive highlands to the northern, the arid western, and the agriculturally rich eastern Andean valleys. Capriles said that people moved, traded, and built monuments in places of significance all throughout the arid mountain landscape. Once the team found an unmapped quadrangular plot of land, they started searching more diligently. 'Because the features are very faint, we blended various satellite images together,' Capriles said. Using photogrammetry via unmanned aerial vehicle to create a 3D approximation, the researchers spot stone alignments that revealed an ancient temple 410 feet long by 475 feet wide (roughly the size of a city block). According to the study, the site included a large, modular building with an integrated, sunken courtyard. 'The complex represents a gateway node that effectively materialized the power and influence of the Tiwanaku state,' the authors wrote. The layout also aligns with solar equinox rituals. On the ground, the team found numerous fragments of keru cups, which were used for drinking the traditional chicha (maize beer) during feasts and celebrations. The maize was not local, and was cultivated in the Cochabamba valleys to the east—not the high-altitude temple location. The find showcases the site's importance as a central hub for trade. Capriles said that the temple likely also served a religious purpose, which would have been common for the day. 'Most economic and political transactions had to be mediated through divinity, because that would be a common language that would facilitate various individuals cooperating,' he said. Ventura Guaravo—the mayor of Caracollo, where the site is located—said in a statement that the archaeological findings offer a view of local heritage that has been overlooked. The city is working with state and national authorities to ensure preservation and protection of the complex. 'With more insight into the past of this ancient site, we get a window into how people managed cooperation, and how we can materially see evidence of political and economic control,' Capriles said. 'There's still so much to discover that we don't know about, and that could be hiding in plain sight.' You Might Also Like The Do's and Don'ts of Using Painter's Tape The Best Portable BBQ Grills for Cooking Anywhere Can a Smart Watch Prolong Your Life?
Time Business News
25-06-2025
- Time Business News
THE INCA JUNGLE TRAIL TO MACHU PICCHU
The Inca Jungle Trail to Machu Picchu offer a unique combination of breathtaking landscapes, thrilling adventures, and fascinating history. It runs in the high jungle of the Peruvian Amazon; this region serves as a gateway to one of the world's most iconic archaeological sites: Machu Picchu. For travelers seeking more than just a trek, the Inca Jungle Tour blends outdoor excitement with cultural immersion, providing an unforgettable experience. Unlike the classic Inca Trail, the Inca Jungle Trek is a multi-sport adventure. It combines mountain biking, hiking, zip-lining, and even river rafting, making it a perfect choice for thrill-seekers. This trail allows adventurers to experience the lush Peruvian jungle while traversing diverse terrains and connecting with local communities. The Inca Jungle is not just a pathway to Machu Picchu; it's a destination in its own right. The region's natural beauty is awe-inspiring, with diverse ecosystems ranging from high-altitude grasslands to dense tropical forests. Along the trail you'll be surprised with a wide variety of wildlife, including spectacled bears, Andean cock-of-the-rocks, and countless species of butterflies. The jungle is also home to rich plant life, with towering ceiba trees, vibrant orchids, and medicinal plants used by local communities. For nature enthusiasts, the journey is a chance to observe and appreciate the interconnectedness of these ecosystems. One of the most rewarding aspects of the Inca Jungle Tour is the opportunity to interact with locals and visit their communities, tasting the traditional Peruvian dishes and learning about the indigenous farming practice. This journey provides you a window into the daily lives of the high tropical jungle and its inhabitants. The expert guide will lead you to explore and get in contact with the people and live different experiences off the beaten track. Hiking on this trek, you will also be able to learn the history of the Incas by visiting the historical Inca Trail and be amazed with the breathtaking views, feel the energy of the mountains, and understand how incredible the culture was in the ancient times. Many guides are descendants of the Inca and take pride in sharing their heritage with visitors. Scenic Downhill Mountain Biking: Experience a thrilling mountain bike ride through the Andes with stunning views of valleys, rivers, and lush jungle terrain. White-Water Rafting: Navigate through the exciting rapids while surrounded by the lush jungle. The class I, II, III is perfect for beginners and experienced travelers who want to experience this activity. Hiking Through the Jungle: Explore some of the most wonderful high cloud forest jungle in Peru, learn the history of the Incas, and visit the local farms where you taste the organic coffee and chocolate. Hot Springs: Soak in the thermal baths of Cocalmayo after a day of trekking; the natural hot springs will help you to relax and recover your energy. Zip-Lining: Glide over the lush jungle canopy and experience breathtaking views of the valley below, feel the adrenaline, and have fun on the suspension bridge. Machu Picchu, the Seven Wonder of the World: After your adventure on the last days, finally you will explore the iconic lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu. Learn about the history of the Incas; be amazed with the extraordinary architecture built at the top of the mountain. The journey begins high in the Andes, typically at Abra Málaga Pass, located at an altitude of around 4,350 meters (14,270 feet). Participants start their descent on mountain bikes, gliding down winding roads surrounded by majestic peaks. The route descends into the jungle, where the climate transitions from crisp mountain air to humid tropical warmth. Along the way, bikers encounter stunning views, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant flora and fauna. The Inca Jungle Trail truly starts with a bang, offering an exhilarating introduction to the adventure ahead. This segment is not just about adrenaline; it's also an opportunity to witness the drastic changes in landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to verdant jungle valleys. The ride ends in a small village, such as Santa Maria, where travelers rest and prepare for the next day's trek. On the second day, adventurers set out on foot, hiking through the dense jungle. This part of the trail is rich in biodiversity, with towering trees, colorful birds, and the distant calls of howler monkeys creating a symphony of nature. The hike also includes sections of an authentic Inca trail, offering a glimpse into the advanced engineering and ingenuity of the ancient civilization. This section of the Inca Jungle Trek is both challenging and rewarding, as hikers are immersed in nature. As the path meanders through the jungle, hikers often pass-through coffee plantations and banana groves, where they can interact with local farmers. Many tours include a stop at a coffee farm, allowing visitors to learn about traditional cultivation methods and sample freshly brewed coffee. By the end of the day, hikers typically arrive at Santa Teresa, a small town known for its hot springs. Here, weary travelers can soak in natural thermal pools, soothing their muscles while surrounded by lush greenery and starry skies. Day three brings another dose of adventure: zip-lining through the jungle canopy. Soaring over treetops and rivers, participants gain a bird's-eye view of the lush landscape. The adrenaline rush is matched by the sheer beauty of the surroundings, creating memories that linger long after the trip ends. The Inca Jungle Adventure offers these thrilling activities, keeping the journey dynamic and engaging. After zip-lining, the journey continues on foot toward Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The trail follows the course of the Urubamba River, winding through narrow valleys and offering glimpses of the iconic mountain peaks. The fourth and final day is the highlight of the Inca Jungle Adventure: exploring Machu Picchu. Many travelers opt to wake up before dawn to catch the first bus or hike up to the site in time for sunrise. The sight of the ancient citadel bathed in golden light is nothing short of magical. Guided tours provide insight into the history, architecture, and cultural significance of Machu Picchu. Visitors can also explore the surrounding areas, such as Huayna Picchu or the Sun Gate, for panoramic views and a deeper appreciation of the site's grandeur. The culmination of the Inca Jungle Trail at this historic site leaves a lasting impression on all who visit. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
Newsweek
25-06-2025
- Science
- Newsweek
Temple of Civilization That Mysteriously Vanished 1,000 Years Ago Revealed
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A newly uncovered ancient temple in the Bolivian Andes is offering archaeologists rare new insights into the Tiwanaku civilization, a once-powerful society that existed over a thousand years ago and was a precursor to the Inca empire before it mysteriously disappeared. The temple—dubbed Palaspata, after the native name for the area—is located on a hilltop in the municipality of Caracollo, near Tiwanaku's historical UNESCO site by Lake Titicaca. The spot was known to local indigenous farmers, but was never explored in depth by researchers because of its unassuming location. However, the position of the site was actually very strategic, anthropology professor José Capriles of the Pennsylvania State University said in a statement. "Their society collapsed sometime around 1000 CE and was a ruin by the time the Incas conquered the Andes in the 15th century", he said. The anthropologist explained that, at its peak, the Tiwanaku civilization boasted a highly organized societal structure and it had left behind remnants of monuments like pyramids and temples. Capriles added: "While we know Tiwanaku's control and influence extended much further, scholars debate how much actual control over distant places it had." The above image shows a digital reconstruction of the newly discovered Tiwanaku temple ruins in the Bolivian Andes. The above image shows a digital reconstruction of the newly discovered Tiwanaku temple ruins in the Bolivian Andes. José Capriles / Penn State During the time of the Tiwanaku civilization, the spot in which the newly discovered ruins were found connected three main trade routes. These included the highlands around Lake Titicaca to the north, the llama-herding plains of the Altiplano to the west and the agriculturally rich valleys of Cochabamba to the east. After noticing an unmapped plot of land in the area, researchers from Penn State University and Bolivian institutions used satellite images and 3D reconstruction techniques to create a detailed rendering of the structure and its topography. They found that Palaspata was approximately the size of a city block, and its layout was aligned to perform rituals following the solar equinox. "Most economic and political transactions had to be mediated through divinity, because that would be a common language that would facilitate various individuals cooperating," Capriles said in the study. According to the mayor of the municipality of Caracollo, Ventura Guarayo, these archaeological findings are significant because they highlight a crucial aspect of the local heritage that had been completely overlooked. "This discovery is vital for our community, and we believe its documentation will be invaluable for promoting tourism and showcasing our region's rich history" he said in a statement, adding that the city is working with state and national authorities to ensure proper protection and preservation of the site. "With more insight into the past of this ancient site, we get a window into how people managed cooperation, and how we can materially see evidence of political and economic control," Capriles added. "There's still so much to discover that we don't know about, and that could be hiding in plain sight. It just requires opening your eyes to see what's out there." While the reason behind the collapse of the Tiwanaku civilization still remains a mystery, archaeologist Luis Miguel Callisaya told the BBC that the most widespread hypothesis is an environmental crisis that led to a prolonged drought. To back this theory, scientists even found the bones of 19 women thought to have been sacrificed to the gods in exchange for rain. However, very little is still known about this ancient civilization, in fact, less than 10 percent of their ruins have to this day been excavated. Do you have a science story to share with Newsweek? Do you have a question about the Tiwanaku civilization? Let us know via science@ Reference Capriles, J. M., Maldonado, S. C., Calero, J. P., & Delaere, C. (2025). Gateway to the east: The Palaspata temple and the south-eastern expansion of the Tiwanaku state. Antiquity, 99(405), 831–849.
