Crazed Greenpeace activists destroy ancient Nazca lines - Peru outraged over Greenpeace publicity stunt

Peru has announced that they are going to file a lawsuit against Greenpeace, whose activists damaged a national monument during a publicity stunt.

LOS ANGELES, CA (Catholic Online) - The world famous Nazca lines were damaged after members of the group unfurled massive yellow banners that made the pro-green energy slogan: "Time for Change! The Future is Renewable. Greenpeace" on December 8.

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The activists left numerous footprint around the lines that made up the hummingbird, and officials say that these marks could remain for thousands of years.

A statement from the Peruvian culture ministry said that the stunt was an unprecedented "attack on the cultural heritage of all Peruvians and all humanity."

"After the illegal, premeditated action by environmental defense group Greenpeace, the zone has been seriously affected."

Covering some 200 square miles of desert, the Nazca lines were created by the Inca civilization between 500 BC and 500 AD.

Seen from the air, the Nazca lines resemble figures of animals, plants, and people. Their geometric complexity has long been one of the great mysteries of the academic world, and archaeologist have long been fascinated with the works.

"It's a true slap in the face at everything Peruvians consider sacred," said Luis Jaime Castillo, the deputy culture minister.

Special rules prohibit visitors from entering the area where the stunt was held, as it is incredibly susceptible to damage. Even international envoys and high profile guests must attain special permission and wear specialized footwear to enter the grounds.

The lines "are absolutely fragile," said Catillo. "They are black rocks on a white background. You walk there and the footprint is going to last hundreds or thousands of years. And the line that they have destroyed is the most visible and recognized of all."

The Peruvian government is attempting to prevent those who are responsible for the destruction for leaving the country, and attempting to prosecute the activists for attacking an archaeological monument, which is punishable by a sentence of up to six years in prison.

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