Maria Reiche

Mathematician

Birthday May 15, 1903

Birth Sign Taurus

Birthplace Dresden, Germany

DEATH DATE Jun 8, 1998 (95)

#159486 Most Popular

About

Known as "Lady of the Lines," she is a German-born Peruvian mathematician and archaeologist who is best known for her research into the Nazca Lines which she discovered in 1940. She dedicated her life to the documentation, preservation, and public dissemination of the Nazca Lines. 

Before Fame

She studied mathematics, astronomy, geography, and foreign language at the Dresden Technical University. After teaming up with fellow scholar Paul Kosok, she discovered the Nazca Lines to be a large scale celestial calendar. She then published her theories in the book The Mystery on the Desert in 1949. 

Trivia

At the 115th anniversary of her birth, she was commemorated with a Google Doodle in May of 2018. She is also known for being a founding member of South American Explorers, a non-profit travel, scientific, and educational organization. 

Family Life

She was born and raised in Dresden, Germany. She is known for her relationship with Amy Meredith who helped her with her work. 

Associated With

Harry Houdini and Jules Verne are other historical figures who have been featured in their own unique Google Doodles.