In the summer of 2025, we joined Dr. Sarah A. Kennedy in Peru to work on an archaeological excavation at the site of Machu Asillo. This year’s excavation is part of a larger, two-year project carried out by Carleton in collaboration with Dr. Elizabeth N. Arkush, Professor of Archaeology at the University of Pittsburgh, Ceclia Chávez Justo, Local Coordinator of CARI Perú, and the Peruvian Ministry of Culture. Machu Asillo, a Late Intermediate Period hillfort (~1000 -1400 CE) is located in the Altiplano (high-plains) of southern Peru in the northern Lake Titicaca Basin. Research carried out in the 2025 field season was focused on the Inca sector of the site, allowing researchers to investigate processes of Inca imperial expansion in the region. The site is mentioned in multiple colonial documents as a Colla stronghold during a large-scale rebellion against the Inca. Thus, the site provides information on possible resistance carried out by the Colla as the Inca conquered the region in the Late Horizon Period (~1400-1533 CE). The site contains a complex of Inca ceremonial architecture, suggesting possible Inca commemoration of their eventual victory.
As student researchers, we were able to participate in every aspect of the project. The majority of our work consisted of excavation. At times, we were given the opportunity to supervise our own units, allowing us to sharpen our archaeological “eye” for changes in material-type and stratigraphy. Alongside Dr. Kennedy and Dr. Arkush, we built our interpretive abilities, a key skill for archaeologists making real-time decisions with regard to their excavations and eventual publications. In the field we also gained experience with numerous digital recording methods including GPS mapping, drone mapping, and the creation of 3D models. While the majority of our work was focused on field work, lab work was also integral to our time in Peru. We gained experience working in a database, organizing excavated materials for storage, and taking starch and phytolith samples for future testing. Throughout the field season, not only were our archaeological skills honed, but we also gained valuable insights outside of our excavation units. Working with skilled archaeologists, several graduate students, and local Peruvians broadened our understanding of both archaeology and southern Peru. We were able to build connections with others in the field and learn about the culture and history of the altiplano through conversation and lived experiences, whether that be taking leftovers from dinner for our lovable hostel dog or learning jokes in Quechua, the Indigenous language of many of the altiplano’s residents. Ultimately, both on site and off, this summer research opportunity gave us meaningful skills, knowledge, and cross-continental connections that we will take with us into our future careers.