This fortunate discovery has not only provided valuable insights but has also added essential pieces to the puzzle of Lima’s ancient history.
Recently, as reported by The Daily Mail, a fascinating event unfolded during the construction of a gas pipeline in Chilca city, just 60 kilometers south of Lima, the capital of Peru. A group of employees from the Calidda Gas Company stumbled upon a peculiar and eerie block of earth, prompting immediate attention.
Upon the arrival of experts, the astonishing revelation emerged—a previously unknown ancient mausoleum containing eight sets of remains. Inside, both adult and juvenile skeletons were discovered, adorned with a fabric woven from tree bark and accompanied by utensils, food, and musical instruments.
The accidental discovery by the Calidda Company holds immense importance, serving as a treasure trove of knowledge about the pre-Columbian metropolis of Chilca, as emphasized by archaeologist Cecilia Camargo.
Further research unveiled that the ancient tomb held the remains of individuals who lived around 1220 AD, during the heyday of the Inca Empire, over 800 years ago. These ancient sanctuaries, often referred to as “extremely precious underground historical treasures,” offer a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Over its 16-year undertaking in constructing natural gas pipelines around Lima, the Calidda Gas Company (Colombia) is believed to have unearthed 300 archaeological sites, many dating back thousands of years. These sites, excavated at a cost exceeding $2 million, contribute significantly to Lima’s reputation as a true cultural hub, according to archaeologist Alexis Solis.
Situated in a valley where three rivers originate from the Andes, Lima was the dwelling place of numerous human civilizations before the arrival of the Spanish in the early 16th century. Archaeologists affirm that numerous archaeological remains are still scattered beneath the city’s surface. In a recent interview, archaeologist Solis stated, “In Lima, the present and the ancient are only a few centimeters apart.”