In a subterranean tomb in Peru, a mummified body was discovered, completely bound in ropes with its hands covering its face. The discovery was made by archaeologists from the National University of San Marcos in Cajamarquilla, a significant site located 15.5 miles inland from Lima, the capital city of Peru.
The mummy is estimated to be between 800 and 1200 years old, and based on its position, bound by ropes and curled up like a fetus, scholars believe that it was part of a southern Peruvian funeral tradition. The mummy is thought to be a male and is estimated to have lived between the ages of 25 and 30, possibly as a significant figure in society.
The discovery of the mummy is significant as it provides insight into pre-Hispanic times and sheds light on relationships and contacts of the time.
The excavation also revealed stone tools, ceramics, and vegetable remains in the tomb, while several sea mollusks were found outside. The mollusks were likely offerings made by ancestors who returned to the tomb over the years after the body was buried.
The university’s evidence shows that the region was likely multiethnic, with settlers from both the coast and the mountains. Cajamarquilla was occupied throughout the first millennium of the current era but was eventually abandoned.
Archaeologist Yomira Huamán Santillán told CNN that the team was not searching for a mummy and that the discovery came as a surprise. She also mentioned that the entire squad was thrilled by the finding as they had not anticipated making such a significant discovery.
