In a groundbreaking discovery, archaeologists have unearthed the skeletal remains of 30 children and several animals, believed to be part of sacrificial rituals from the Chimú culture, dating back to around 1200 AD. This significant find was made in the Las Lomas sector of Huanchaco, near Trujillo, Peru, approximately one kilometer from the beach.
The excavation is part of the ongoing Huanchaco archaeological project, initiated eight years ago to explore and reveal the architecture of a site known as 'Montículo 2'. The findings suggest a deeper understanding of the sacrificial practices during the Chimú era, with the remains indicating that the sacrifices included not only the children but also seven to nine llamas.
According to the archaeologists involved, the remains are currently being preserved in special plastic bags for further study and conservation. The discovery was made in the Ñing An complex, specifically in an area known as Audiencias or Templetes, which features several ceremonial chambers adorned with niches and marine-themed decorations, including fishing nets and marine animals.
“There are over 10 small temples in this northern sector of the Nik An complex, which are more restricted spaces compared to the larger northern patio. This area was likely used for more private and specific ceremonies by the Chimú believers,” explained one of the archaeologists.