Peru unveils remarkably preserved pre-Incan tomb with 38 Chimu individuals

Peruvian archaeologists announced the discovery of an almost intact pre-Incan funerary platform containing remains of 38 individuals, including an elite member of the Chimu civilization that flourished on Peru's northern coast between 900 and 1470 AD. 

Culture Minister Alberto Beingolea presented the tomb on Tuesday (September 8) near Chan Chan, the largest mud-brick citadel in the Americas, located 600 kilometres north of Lima. 

Archaeologists said the mud structure measures 17 meters per side and approximately five meters high, containing five chambers with metal weapons and human remains. The central chamber features a niche with an extended burial of a principal individual surrounded by artefacts crafted from seashells and metal, while other remains were positioned in flexed or seated positions indicating high social status. 

The main burial chamber remained sealed for nearly 600 years until its discovery, marking the first time Peruvian archaeologists have found an unaltered Chimu elite platform, as previous discoveries consisted of looted and destroyed remains from colonial times. 

Production: Videosur, Editing: Hugo Monnet/Reuters