Lord of Sipán

Some archaeologists consider this find to be one of the most important archaeological discoveries in South America in the last 30 years, as the main tomb was found intact and untouched by thieves.

The Moche tombs at Huaca Rajada are located near the town of Sipán in the middle of the Lambayeque Valley.

[2] Scientific analysis of the skeleton of the Lord of Sipán shows that he was approximately 1.63 meters tall and was about 35–45 years old at the time of his death.

The Lord of Sipán was wearing two necklaces with beads of gold and silver in the shape of peanuts, which represent the earth.

Buried with the Lord of Sipán were six other people: three young women (possibly wives or concubines who had apparently died some time earlier), two males (probably warriors), and a child of about nine or ten.

The warriors who were buried with the Lord of Sipán had amputated feet, as if to prevent them from leaving the tomb.

In addition to the people, archeologists found in the tomb a total of 451 ceremonial items and offerings (burial goods), and the remains of several animals, including a dog and two llamas.

Artifacts in this second tomb are believed to be related to religion: a cup or bowl for the sacrifices, a metal crown adorned with an owl with its wings extended, and other items associated with worship of the moon.

Archeological research and DNA testing enabled deducing certain physical characteristics of the ruler, such as skin color, the form of his lips, hair, eyes and other facial features.