Archaeologists in Peru have recently discovered significant evidence believed to indicate female leadership in the ancient Moche culture over 1,300 years ago at the Panamarca archaeological site, located near the Pacific coast.
Among the findings is a stone throne and intricate murals depicting unique scenes.
According to Jessica Ortiz, the project research director at the Panamarca archaeological site on the northwest coast of Peru, these ancient murals “may suggest that this space was used by a woman, potentially someone with ruling power.”
Panamarca archaeological site. (Source: Reuters).
Here, archaeologists also uncovered a room with columns and a throne, surrounded by wall paintings depicting the image of a powerful woman associated with marine creatures and crescent moon imagery.
This woman is shown seated on the throne, welcoming guests. Evidence such as human hair and wear marks on the throne indicates that this artifact was frequently used.
Archaeologist Jose Ochatoma expressed excitement, stating: “The most interesting aspect is the wear marks. No surface in this area is bare. Everything is intricately painted and decorated with scenes and mythological figures.”
Mr. Ochatoma compared this room to the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican, where the ceiling was painted with biblical figures by the master artist Michelangelo. He noted: “This is a space where they recorded scenes belonging to the Moche ideology.”
Archaeologists believe that this throne room dates back to the 7th century AD, a time when the Moche culture dominated the coastal valleys of northwestern Peru.
This civilization is renowned for its remarkable achievements in art, architecture, and irrigation technology.
Not far from the throne room, researchers discovered another chamber overlooking a square, which they have named the Snake Weaving Room due to a mural depicting a figure with twisted legs alongside snakes—a motif never seen before.
This room also features numerous other murals depicting warriors, anthropomorphized weapons, and a monster chasing a man.
Mr. Ochatoma shared: “We are exploring a symbolic system never seen in the pre-Columbian world.”
Peru is a country rich in archaeological sites, many dating back thousands of years. It was once the cradle of the great Inca Empire, a civilization that dominated the Andean highlands until Spanish conquerors arrived in the 16th century.
According to researchers, this new discovery not only provides deeper insights into the history of Moche culture but also opens new avenues for studying the role of women in ancient societies.
