Cusco, Oct. 07 (ANDINA).- After four months of research, a team of archaeologists of Cusco-based National Institute of Culture (INC) have discovered 12 tombs and 12 pre-Hispanic ruins in an archaeological complex located in a hill outside this Andean city.
The discovery took place in the archaeological site of Qata Ccasapata Llacta, a Quechua phrase that means “Village at the top where it is cold.”
The site is located in the northeastern area of Cusco, near the Qorimachahuacniyoc ravine and on top of the Francisco Bolognesi community in the Santiago district.
Archaeologist Carmen Concha Olivera said that the findings also include an altar inside the ruins that possibly served as a place for cult for the inhabitants of an ancient village.
"One of the 12 graves was believed to be that of a important person because his skeletal remains were placed inside a large funerary urn along with 10 metal, ceramic and stone objects," Concha Olivera said.
Surrounding the urn were three graves of children who may have been sacrificed and another of a woman who could have been the man's wife, all located alongside a stone incense burner.
"Most of the graves were found inside the earthen enclosures, while the others were found underneath patios, stairs and footpaths," Concha Olivera said.
Seven of the graves have been perfectly preserved, but the ther five have been looted by robbers.
The architecture is rustic and features reused material dating back to the local Killke culture, which preceded the Incas, and other elements were found including small patio-like spaces, passageways and terraces.
(END) FZC/VVS/JCG