Maria Reiche

German mathematician dedicated to studying and preserving Peru's Nazca Lines, bringing global attention to this archaeological marvel

Maria Reiche (1903–1998) was a German-born mathematician and archaeologist whose lifelong dedication to the Nazca Lines transformed global understanding of these ancient geoglyphs. Arriving in Peru in 1932, she became fascinated by the mysterious desert markings, which were then largely unknown outside academic circles.

Over five decades, Reiche meticulously mapped over 1,000 lines and figures using mathematical precision, discovering their alignment with astronomical phenomena. She pioneered preservation efforts, personally sweeping the lines clean of debris and lobbying the Peruvian government for protection. Her 1949 book Mystery on the Desert brought international attention to the site, leading to its UNESCO World Heritage status in 1994.

Reiche's work challenged conventional archaeological methods by combining mathematical analysis with indigenous knowledge. Despite facing skepticism and financial hardship, she established the Maria Reiche Foundation to ensure ongoing research. Her legacy lives on through advanced technologies like satellite imaging that continue validating her theories about the lines' celestial connections.