3,000-Year-Old Mummy Unearthed In Lima

A Peruvian archaeologists announced the discovery of an ancient mummy in Lima, estimated to be around 3,000 years old. This finding adds to the growing collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts found in th...

An archaeologist works at the excavation site of a pre-Hispanic burial next to a mummy believed to be from the Manchay culture, which developed in the valleys of Lima between 1,500 and 1,000 BCE, in Lima, Peru, June 14, 2023. REUTERS/Anthony Marina

A Peruvian archaeologists announced the discovery of an ancient mummy in Lima, estimated to be around 3,000 years old. This finding adds to the growing collection of pre-Hispanic artifacts found in the Andean nation.

During the excavation, students from San Marcos University and researchers initially came across remnants of the mummy’s hair and skull, carefully preserved within a cotton bundle. Subsequently, they unearthed the remaining parts of the mummy.

According to archaeologist Miguel Aguilar, the mummy likely belonged to the Manchay culture, which thrived in the Lima valleys between 1500 and 1000 BC. This culture was known for constructing temples shaped like a U that faced the direction of the sunrise.

Aguilar explained that the individual was likely “left or offered (as a sacrifice) during the final phase of temple construction.” The mummy, approximately 3,000 years old, provides valuable insights into the practices and beliefs of the Manchay culture.

In addition to the mummy, archaeologists discovered various accompanying items buried alongside the body. These included corn, coca leaves, and seeds, which are believed to have been part of a ceremonial offering.
[ad unit=2]

Chinelo Eze

Guardian Life

Join Our Channels