Drone footage of the site reveals a circular structure at Peñico's center, encircled by the remains of buildings made of stone and mud. In the course of eight years of research, archaeologists unearthed 18 structures, including ceremonial temples and residential complexes. Among the artifacts found were ceremonial items, clay sculptures of human and animal forms, and necklaces crafted from beads and seashells.

Peñico is situated near Caral, recognized as the Americas' oldest civilization, which dates back to approximately 3,000 BC. Caral features remarkable architecture, including 32 monumental structures, advanced agricultural practices, and urban settlements that existed in a relative isolation from contemporaneous advanced societies in other regions like India and Egypt.

Dr. Ruth Shady, who led the research at Peñico and previously excavated Caral, emphasized the discovery's importance in understanding the trajectory of Caral's civilization, particularly its responses to climatic challenges. Dr. Marco Machacuay from the Ministry of Culture noted that Peñico represents a continuation of the Caral society's legacy. This finding adds to Peru's rich tapestry of archaeological heritage, which includes renowned sites like the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu and the enigmatic Nazca Lines.