Unearthing Lima Secrets: Lima, the capital of Peru, has a long and exciting history. Archaeologists often refer to it as an “onion with layers.” But this isn’t just a figure of speech; this city’s past is buried deep underground. For 19 years, gas line workers have been digging under busy city streets. They found many interesting things.
Calidda, responsible for providing natural gas to Lima’s 10 million people, embarks on an unexpected journey through history. Archaeologist Jesus Bahamonde from Calidda compares their work to uncovering Lima’s hidden history beneath the city’s tracks and streets. What they’ve learned over time is truly unique.
Over 1,900 historical pieces were found due to these digs. There were various findings, including pottery, mummies, and fabrics. Most discoveries are linked to burial sites on flat ground. But Lima has an even older past.
The significant historical sites in the city are called “huacas” in Quechua. On hills, adobe houses are seen as holy places. They demonstrate the longstanding spiritual significance of this place.
Given Lima’s long history, it’s unsurprising that the city has many relics. For over 10,000 years, various cultures have inhabited present-day Lima. This includes pre-Inca cultures, the Inca Empire, and Spanish colonial culture in 1535. The city’s history adds intrigue in every way.
A skeleton is a fascinating recent discovery on Calidda. We have learned about the secret Ichma society by discovering eight pre-Inca burial bales. The Ichma society spread in Lima’s valleys around 1100. In the late 1400s, it joined the Inca Empire. Older adults’s bodies were wrapped in cotton cloth and tied with liana bands. This shows their occupation and burial details.
ALSO READ: San Antonio Stage 2 Watering Rules: Citations Surge Amid Conservation Efforts
Sometimes, these findings help us determine recent events. In 2018, scholars discovered three coffins with bodies of Chinese immigrants from the 1800s. There were opium pipes, hand-rolled cigarettes, Chinese playing cards, and a Peruvian silver coin from 1898 near the graves. These results show societies’ impact on Lima over time.
The discovery of eight grave bundles near restaurants serving braised chicken and a road leading to Peru’s only nuclear power plant is a reminder of the city’s history. Archaeologists and history enthusiasts continue to uncover Lima’s intriguing hidden history.
Also Read: Judge Surprising Ruling on Drag Shows: Sparks Debate Over Free Speech Rights
Our Reader’s Queries
Was there a mummy found in Lima?
In Lima, Peru, archaeologists have discovered four mummies of children, estimated to be over 1,000 years old. These mummies were found in a sacred ceremonial area that has since become part of one of Lima’s oldest neighborhoods. The discovery provides a glimpse into the ancient history of the area and sheds light on the rituals and practices of the past.
Did Peru archaeologists unearth 1000 year old mummies of children in Lima?
Peruvian archaeologists unearthed the ancient remains of four children, estimated to be more than 1,000 years old. The discovery took place in the oldest district of Lima, which was previously a revered ceremonial site. It is believed that the children were part of the Ychsma culture.
What are the recent discoveries in Peru?
Archaeologists unearthed a 4,000-year-old polychrome wall in northern Peru, likely a section of a ceremonial temple. Farmers stumbled upon the ancient wall in 2020, and further studies have verified its age.