Researchers have discovered an ancient tomb containing a treasure of solid gold belonging to a tribal leader at an archaeological park in Panama, according to CBS News on March 4.
The Ministry of Culture of Panama stated that the tomb is estimated to be around 1,200 years old, belonging to a tribal leader and accompanied by dozens of sacrificial victims. The tomb is located within the El Caño Archaeological Park.
Inside a tomb at the El Caño Archaeological Park. (Photo: MINISTRY OF CULTURE OF PANAMA).
Inside the tomb, the archaeological team found numerous gold artifacts, including bracelets, two belts made from gold beads, crocodile-shaped earrings, gold earrings inlaid with sperm whale teeth, and many circular plates.
Experts also discovered earrings shaped like men and women, two bells, skirts made from dog teeth, and a set of flutes made from bone.
The El Caño organization indicated that the ancient tomb in Panama likely belonged to a leader of high status in their 30s.
Dr. Julia Mayo, Director of the El Caño Organization and head of the archaeological project, mentioned that alongside the leader’s remains, the tomb may also contain up to 31 other individuals who were sacrificed.
Ms. Mayo added that the excavation of the tomb was not yet completed at the time of the announcement, so they were unsure of the exact number of individuals inside the tomb.
The leader was buried face down and was lying on top of a woman’s remains.
Ms. Linette Montenegro, National Director of Heritage at the Ministry of Culture of Panama, stated that the project was initiated in 2022.
The El Caño Archaeological Park is a cemetery built around the year 700 and was abandoned by the year 1000. It is located in Coclé province, approximately 160 km southwest of Panama City.
