Discover the wonders of the Ice Maiden, a nearly perfectly preserved Incan mummy, at the Museum of Andean Sanctuaries in Arequipa, Peru. This remarkable archaeological treasure offers a unique glimpse into the Inca Empire's past, providing invaluable insights into their health, nutrition, and sacrificial practices. A must-see attraction for history enthusiasts and travelers alike, the Ice Maiden's story is a testament to the rich cultural heritage preserved within the museum's walls.
Travelers exploring Arequipa, the picturesque city in southern Peru, should allocate at least an hour to immerse themselves in the rich history showcased at the Catholic University's Archaeology Museum. This esteemed institution is home to an extensive collection of over a thousand artifacts, including pre-Columbian ceramics, textiles, stone, metal, and wooden objects. These pieces represent the Inca, Chancay, Tiahuanuco, and Huari cultures, offering a comprehensive overview of the region's ancient civilizations.
The museum's crown jewel is the Ice Maiden, also known as Momia Juanita, Lady of Ampato, Frozen Lady, or The Ice Princess. Discovered in 1995 by anthropologist Johan Reinhard and his colleague Miguel Zarate, the Ice Maiden's discovery was a result of the melting snow on Mt. Ampato, caused by the volcanic ash from the nearby erupting Sabancaya volcano. This natural event revealed a hidden Inca burial site, where the remarkably preserved body of a young girl was found alongside numerous artifacts.
The Ice Maiden quickly became a global sensation, drawing the attention of historians and archaeologists worldwide. In 1996, she was temporarily displayed at The National Geographic Society's headquarters in Washington D.C. before being returned to Arequipa for permanent exhibition at the Museum of Andean Sanctuaries.
Weighing approximately 90 pounds and aged between 12 and 14 years, the Ice Maiden lived over 500 years ago during the reign of the Sapa Inca Pachacuti. Her life, believed to have been one of privilege, ended with a ceremonial blow to the head at the summit of Mt. Ampato. She was likely chosen as a child for her purity and worthiness to be offered as a sacrifice to the mountain deity, Ampato. The Ice Maiden, along with other children, was revered and prepared for their journey to the spirit world, where they would join the gods and be worshipped by the local populace.
With permission granted, researchers conducted tests on the Ice Maiden's organs, unveiling new information about the Inca's state of health and nutrition. The data extracted from her lungs, liver, and muscle tissues have significantly contributed to our understanding of the Inca Empire. Time magazine recognized this discovery as one of the world's top ten in terms of health-related insights.
The Ice Maiden's exceptional preservation is a marvel of archaeological significance. Her story provides a tangible connection to the past, allowing visitors to step back in time and experience a piece of the Inca Empire's history. The Museum of Andean Sanctuaries in Arequipa is a destination not to be missed for those seeking to uncover the mysteries of ancient civilizations during their travels in Peru.
For further reading on the Inca Empire and its fascinating history, consider exploring resources provided by The National Geographic Society and Time magazine.
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