2023-09-21 05:31:08
The discovery of preserved bodies is a notable event in Peruvian archaeology. Highly threatened by trafficking, intact mummies are proving to be valuable discoveries for understanding the people of the past and their living conditions. At the site of Huaca Pucllana in the residential area of Miraflores in Lima, a body with a hairy head was discovered by archaeologists who have been working at the site for several years.
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The announcement of the discovery of a mummy in excellent condition in Peru was made by the team of Micaela Álvarez Camet and José Ccencho Huamani who work at the archaeological site of Huaca Pucllana. Scientists have noted that several cultures occupied the site such as that of Lima, but also the Wari culture. The sacred character of the site, and its dimensions, make it an exceptional site for Peruvian archaeology. Other cultures interest archaeologists, in particular that of Ychsma to which the recently discovered mummy could be linked.
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A very well preserved mummy
This is not the first time that burials have been discovered on this major site, however, the mummy is likely to be of great interest to researchers. Indeed, many bodies found were related to the Wari culture, since elements characteristic of this culture were observed in the funerary treatment. However, the hairy mummy was treated differently, since it was found at the top of this extensive site, both in hectare and in height at the time of its use. The body was found sitting with its legs curled up and its feet crossed. The hair, styled in a braid, is extremely well preserved. An element in favor of a more in-depth study of the latter to better understand the life of this deceased person. Her biological sex has not yet been identified. Alongside it, ceramics were discovered as well as a textile pouch housing metal elements. The body is currently dated to 1000 AD.
Why study mummies in this type of context?
The chance discovery of bodies during construction is not uncommon in Peru, and the chances of discovering non-looted bodies in the country remain slim. Indeed, archaeological looting is a major scourge in this country where the bodies, like the objects accompanying the dead, are sought by traffickers and collectors abroad. The International Concil of Museums is formal, mummies are on the red list of cultural property in danger, whether they are surrounded by funerary cloth, called fardo for certain periods, or without. Consequently, this framed discovery made in an archaeological and scientific framework makes it possible to protect this body and consequently the integrity of the deceased.
What can we know about a mummy?
In the case of the mummy discovered on this site, it will be possible to better understand the period during which this individual lived, but also the way in which his death was treated. Non-invasive studies will be able to determine whether paleopathological elements of ancient diseases can be visible on the bones. It is also possible in certain cases to determine the presence of insects dating back to the person’s lifetime or, conversely, coming from post-mortem. Thus, the study will perhaps allow us to better understand the person’s region of origin, perhaps their movements or even their eating habits, without forgetting their deficiencies or various elements that could indicate more about their lifestyle.
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