Archaeologists have made a significant discovery at the Puémape archaeological site in Peru's La Libertad region, unearthing the remains of at least 14 individuals attributed to the Salinar culture, dating back to approximately 400 BCE. These findings offer crucial insights into ancient funerary and ritualistic practices.
The individuals were found interred face down, with their hands bound behind their backs. Evidence of violence, such as blows and fractures, was observed on some remains, suggesting these burials may represent ritual sacrifices or were conducted after periods of conflict. The positioning of the bodies, described as unusual for Andean prehistory, points towards deliberate ceremonial acts.
Henry Tantaleán, director of the Chicama Archaeological Program and affiliated with the National University of San Marcos, highlighted that the temple at Puémape was likely repurposed as a sacred space for ancestral veneration. The site itself shows a long history of occupation, with evidence of use dating back to around 2200 BCE. While initially associated with the Cupisnique culture, architectural distinctions suggest a potential for parallel or later developments within the region.
Puémape's significance as a ceremonial and pilgrimage center on Peru's northern coast is further illuminated by these discoveries. The site's temple complex, with human activity confirmed as early as 2200 BCE and the main temple in use by approximately 1000 BCE, is considered one of the oldest ritual centers in the area. The presence of a large cemented area around the temple reinforces its role as a place of pilgrimage and ritual burials.
The Salinar culture, which flourished from approximately 400 BCE, represented a transitional period between the Cupisnique and Moche cultures. Archaeological evidence indicates fortified settlements and resource use, reflecting complex social organization during the Salinar period. The Salinar people also mined copper and alloyed it with gold. These findings at Puémape deepen the understanding of ancient Peruvian societies, offering a rare glimpse into the complex ritualistic landscape and the cultural evolution of the northern coast of Peru.