Over a millennium ago, this pre-Inca infant found its final resting place on a desolate hillside in Peru. Dozens of remarkably preserved mummified skeletons were uncovered by archaeologists near the outskirts of Lima, the capital city. The excavation, commissioned by the Government as a prelude to a new road construction project, brought to light a fascinating chapter of history.
Discovered on a desolate Peruvian hillside as archaeologists surveyed the area for an impending road construction project, this pre-Inca infant’s resting place unfolded into a significant find. Just three days into the excavation, the team stumbled upon a cemetery, as reported by National Geographic News. Lima-based archaeologist Guillermo Cock expressed his surprise at the remarkable preservation of over 40 mummy bundles, stating, “Only a few bundles have suffered damage by human action.”
In total, the team identified approximately 26 tombs containing both children and adults. The newfound site is situated near Puruchuco-Huaquerones, recognized as the largest Inca cemetery ever excavated. Despite its proximity to the city and historical looting practices in the area, the site remained remarkably undisturbed, mostly intact, and largely unlooted.
The discovery adds to the rich history of Puruchuco-Huaquerones, where, over the past 60 years, researchers have explored just 10 percent of the extensive site. Within this limited exploration, they’ve uncovered an astonishing 2,000 mummies, along with ceramics and a plethora of artifacts crafted from textile, silver, copper, and gold. The recent revelation near Puruchuco-Huaquerones contributes new insights into the burial practices and material culture of ancient civilizations in the region.
The mummified skeleton has been preserved for more than 1,000 years outside Peru’s capital of Lima
As well as the baby, archaeologists also uncovered the well-preserved remains of a number of pre-Inca adult
At the site museum, an archaeologist meticulously demonstrates the intricate wrapping techniques employed to preserve the recently discovered mummies.
With the impending construction of the new highway, the latest archaeological finds have been relocated to the site museum, where local authorities plan to advance the construction project. At this museum, archaeologists are painstakingly examining the well-preserved remains, unraveling the mysteries of the past.
Peru has witnessed a surge in archaeological discoveries in recent years, with thousands of mummies being unearthed. Among the most renowned finds is ‘Juanita the Ice Maiden,’ a girl preserved in ice on a mountain, captivating the world with insights into ancient burial practices and life.
On March 4, 2015, at the site museum of the relatively obscure Puruchuco complex, also known as “Feathered Head-Piece” in Andean Quechua language, a silver ceremonial mask from the pre-Inca era captures attention. The intricately crafted mask serves as a fascinating artifact, shedding light on the rich cultural and ceremonial practices of the ancient inhabitants of Lima.
The site where the 26 tombs were found on the outskirts of Lima in Peru
A pre-Inca cotton and wool shoulder bag mask with silver applications is among the haul of historical items discovered in LIma, Peru
Experts examine a number of ceramics that were also uncovered by researchers
