Archaeologists in northern Peru have uncovered an ancient tomb that appears to have remained largely untouched for more than 600 years, the Peruvian Ministry of Culture informed on September 8. The burial site, located near Chan Chan, contains the remains of at least 38 high-status individuals, along with grave goods and other artifacts, including metal weapons.
The discovery has surprised experts because many burial sites from the region have previously been found looted or damaged. The tomb and its artifacts belonged to the pre-Incan Chimu civilization, which flourished along Peru’s northern coast between approximately 900 and 1470 CE, before being conquered by the expanding Inca Empire.
Later in history, the Incas went on to build one of the largest and most powerful empires in pre-Columbian America. Their rise to power occurred between 1438 to 1533, starting as a small tribe and gradually expanding their control from Colombia to Argentina along the coast. Even now, their architectural accomplishments, agricultural practices, communication systems, and record-keeping abilities are still highly regarded.
Curious? Click through the gallery to explore this remarkable civilization.