Skeletal remains revealing funerary practices discovered in pre-Inca fortress of Kuélap

Archaeologists in Peru have unearthed skeletal remains within the pre-Inca fortress of Kuélap, a site often called the "Machu Picchu of northern Peru." The discovery sheds new light on the intricate funerary rituals of the Chachapoya civilization, which flourished in the Andean region between 800 and 1570 AD.

The excavation revealed a unique stone funerary structure with a horseshoe-shaped layout, built on a platform accessible by two steps. This structure, visible from both main entrances to Kuélap, is believed to have served a significant ceremonial and public purpose within the walled citadel's spatial organization. Inside, researchers found the remains of five individuals – four adults and one child. The discovery of one individual in a seated position atop the others suggests the structure may have been used on multiple occasions.

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the high cultural value achieved by the Chachapoyas culture

According to Rocío Sánchez, Director of Culture for the Amazonas department, the remains were found in Area 12 of Kuélap, a strategic part of the 'Lower Town' that had not been systematically studied before. Sánchez emphasized that the discovery's importance lies not only in the artifacts but also in its location at the confluence of Kuélap's two most important entrances, a site likely considered sacred and publicly visible.

Among the recovered items are a regional Inca-style ceremonial vessel depicting the pacay fruit and fragments of Spondylus shells. These materials date to the Late Horizon period (approximately 1470-1532 AD), coinciding with the Inca Empire's expansion. The presence of Spondylus, a marine mollusk from Ecuador and northern Peru, highlights Kuélap's extensive trade networks, a finding consistent with previous excavations.

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was somehow very important and sacred for them and was in plain sight of everyone