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Two mummies found in Peru
Two mummies, dating back to around 1,460 A.D., were found near an archaeological site in northern Peruvian province of Amazonas.
Two mummies, dating back to around 1,460 A.D., were found near an archaeological site in northern Peruvian province of Amazonas.
"The tombs had been plundered, but one of the mummies was fully intact," said Maria Dolores Ramos, an official in charge of culture and tourism.
The discovery was made at a place opposite the Karajia archaeological complex in Luya Viejo district, the official said.
The mummies were "wrapped in blankets and surrounded by pottery and mystical instruments," Ramos said, adding that the artifacts indicate the corpses may be of high-ranking military officials or important priests of the Luya Chillaos ethnic group.
Authorities in Luya Viejo are now planning to build a museum, given the possibility of finding other similar remains, the official said.
Peru's Amazonas region has rich archaeological heritage. The attractions include the Kuelap Fortress, the Karajia Sarcophagi, the Quiocta Caverns, the Leymebamba Mummy museum and the Gocta Waterfall (one of the world's tallest).
