Archaeologists delved into a tomb dating back approximately 1,200 years and unearthed a lavish assortment of golden treasures, including belts adorned with gold beads, earrings crafted from gold-encased whale teeth, and a set of circular gold plates.
The site offered more than treasure, though: the remains of as many as 31 sacrificial victims were also unearthed
Archeologists made the discovery in El Caño Archeological Park, home to an ancient necropolis that was used from 700-1000 AD
However, amidst the opulence, the tomb of the Colcé chief (750-800 AD), aged between 30 and 40 at the time of his passing, revealed a darker secret: the presence of sacrificial victims intended to accompany their lord into the afterlife.
These people were sacrificed prior to burial, so that they could accompany their lord to the afterlife.
As many as 31 individuals were interred alongside the ancient ruler, though the precise count remains uncertain as excavations continue at the El Caño Archaeological Park.
This significant discovery not only yielded precious artifacts but also shed light on burial customs of the era. The chief was laid to rest in a distinct manner, positioned face down atop the body of a woman.
The tomb was built around 750 AD, and excavators also unearthed ceramic artifacts and jewelry.
The burial style, characterized by multiple simultaneous interments, offers invaluable insights into ancient rituals. Dr. Julia Mayo, overseeing the excavation, explained that such collective burials typically involve varying numbers of individuals, ranging from eight to 32.
These sacrificial offerings were intended to accompany the lord in the afterlife, reflecting beliefs prevalent during the period.
Sitio El Caño, where the tomb was located, functioned as a necropolis from 700 AD to 1000 AD before its abandonment, featuring monoliths, a cemetery, and ceremonial spaces.
Dating back to around 750 AD, the tomb also yielded ceramic artifacts and a diverse array of jewelry, including pectorals, bracelets, earrings depicting human figures, crocodile-shaped earrings, bells, and necklaces.
They found five pectorals, four bracelets, two earrings in the shape of human figures (a man and a woman), an earing in the shape of a double crocodile, bells, plaques, and a necklace.
Among the intriguing finds were bracelets and skirts crafted from dog teeth, as well as a collection of bone flutes.
The Ministry of Culture hailed the discovery not only for its economic significance but also for its profound historical value, offering a glimpse into the rich tapestry of ancient rituals and customs.