<P> This site holds a large amount of geographical and religious significance which may be one of the reasons why the location was used as a large ceremonial center and a center of power for the Chavín culture . Chavín de Huántar is located north of modern day Lima at the confluence of two rivers: the Mosna river and the Huanchecsa river . As a result this site allows for easy transportation and, at the same time, limited access to outsiders . Chavín de Huántar itself is located on a lowland valley where the two rivers merge and high altitude valleys are located nearby . Consequently, the people at Chavín de Huántar were able to cultivate lowland crops such as maize and high altitude crops such as potatoes . The people were also domesticating llamas in the high altitude areas for food and as a means to carrying heavy loads on the steep slopes of the hills . </P> <P> The religious significance of Chavín de Huántar depends upon the geography of the site . The confluence of two large rivers has shown religious significance in past cultures, and thus it makes sense that the location of Chavín de Huántar was utilized as a religious ceremonial center . The confluence of two rivers is referred to as tinkuy, which can be defined as the harmonious meeting of opposing forces . It has been suggested that Chavin de Huantar served as the meeting place of the natural and cosmic forces . The area is known to have natural hot springs as well as an awe - inspiring view of the Wantsan peak which could both add to religious significance of the site . </P> <P> Beginning in 2004, Global Heritage Fund (GHF) began conservation work at this UNESCO World Heritage Site . According to GHF, their work has involved: </P> <P> stabilizing primary monuments, repairing underground structures, documenting the site with high precision instruments, locating underground structures with non-intrusive technologies, revealing, assessing and when appropriate removing post-Chavín structures to reveal original architecture; cataloguing (sic) artifacts, and improving site interpretation facilities, while the local community is engaged through conservation and craft training, employment, tourism entrepreneurship and regular consultations regarding the management of the site and its environs ." </P>

Chavin de huantar is where peru first saw