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| Archaeologists studying the mummy. (Photo: BBC) |
A newly discovered tattooed mummy in Peru is believed to be one of the most well-preserved artifacts from a civilization that ended over 1,300 years ago.
The mummy is that of a 30-year-old woman, thought to be a high-ranking member of the Moche tribe. The skeleton of a virgin sacrifice was also found, with a rope still around her neck.
American and Peruvian archaeologists uncovered the mummy in the El Brujo area. They estimate its origin to be around 450 AD.
The presence of valuable items such as gold jewelry indicates that the woman was an important figure, according to anthropologist John Verano from Tulane University in the United States. However, the discovery of clubs alongside her remains surprised the archaeological team.
“It is possible that the woman was a warrior, or the clubs and spearheads could symbolize power that men gave as funeral offerings,” Verano stated.
According to archaeologists, this woman had given birth once, but the cause of her death remains unclear.
M.T.
