Archaeological Experts Discuss Ancient Peruvian Civilizations in Museum Series

The Australian Museum hosted the inaugural session of its 'Conversations of the Golden Empires' series, featuring a discussion about ancient Peruvian societies from the Andes to the Amazon. The event brought together three specialists: archaeologist Dr. Chris Carter, Professor Julian Droogan, and journalist Caroline Baum. Participants explored Incan and Pre-Columbian history through a question-and-answer format. The conversation covered significant historical periods, including the era of the deity Viracocha, the rule of Pachacuti, and the Spanish conquest. Dr. Carter, who consults on Indigenous and historical sites in Australia, previously taught at the Australian National University from 1996 to 2017. His doctoral research focused on the prehistoric economy of coastal Northern Chile, an area inhabited for approximately 9,000 years up to the Inca Empire. He contributed to mapping Inca trails for a UNESCO World Heritage listing and has led educational tours to South America since 1995. Professor Droogan, from Macquarie University's Faculty of Arts, holds a PhD in Studies in Religion and specializes in the material culture and history of ancient religions. His work examines links between ancient history, religion, politics, and international security. He has presented lecture series at the Art Gallery of NSW on topics including world religions, the Silk Road, and Mesoamerica, and has guided art tours through various global regions. Caroline Baum is an author, journalist, and podcaster known for her memoir 'Only: A Singular Memoir' and her podcast 'Life Sentences'. She has judged literary awards such as the Stella Prize and the Walkleys, and curates the True Story Festival annually in New South Wales. The event aimed to deepen public understanding of Peru's architectural, religious, and cultural heritage.