Archaeologists in Peru have uncovered over 100 dog skeletons dating back approximately 1,000 years in Lima’s Parque de las Leyendas. These findings shed light on the cultural and ritual significance of dogs in pre-Columbian Peru. The excavation took place within the Archaeological Complex of Maranga, one of Lima’s most extensive ancient cities. In 2012, Karina Venegas Gutiérrez and her team discovered 138 dogs and 134 humans buried together. These remains were found amidst layers of settlements spanning millennia, representing a transitional period for coastal societies from the Lima culture (300-800 C.E.) to the Ychsma culture (900-1470 C.E.).
Burial Practices and Discoveries
The dogs were interred in resting positions, wrapped in textiles similar to those used for humans. Most of the dogs belonged to street dog breeds still found in Peru today. Some were so well-preserved that their skin, hair, and even noses and ears remained intact. Initial observations suggest these dogs were likely strangled, as they show no signs of fatal skeletal injuries, unlike the human remains, which exhibit signs of violent deaths such as skull fractures and broken ribs.
Unusual Burial Patterns
The simultaneous burials of dogs and humans are unusual. In other Peruvian sites, dogs have been found in separate cemeteries, indicating different ritual practices. The theory that dogs were companions to humans in the afterlife is supported by previous discoveries, such as the 2006 finding of 40 mummified dogs in a pet cemetery south of Lima, buried with food and blankets.
Ritual Sacrifice Hypothesis
Archaeologists suggest that the simultaneous burials of dogs and humans might have been part of a ritual sacrifice, potentially following a traumatic community event. This hypothesis is supported by the arrangement of remains and signs of violence on the human skeletons. The discovery of a young boy curled up next to a pregnant dog adds a poignant detail to the burial practices.
Continued Archaeological Exploration
The Parque de las Leyendas remains a rich archaeological site with 54 wak’as (sacred sites) yet to be fully explored. Recent finds include eight well-preserved dogs and a mummified guinea pig. Researchers aim to further understand the interactions between ancient Peruvians and their dogs, tracing their evolution and cultural significance over time.
Historical Significance
The Parque de las Leyendas is situated in an area that was a sacred site for at least three ancient civilizations: the Lima culture (100-650 C.E.), the Ichma culture (900-1470 C.E.), and the Incas (1200-1500 C.E.). Before becoming a zoo in 1964, it was used for various religious rites and funerals. Archaeologists believe the dogs were sacrificed by the Ichma culture, often found with ropes around their necks, indicating strangulation or slit throats. The remains are significant for understanding the origins of South America’s domesticated dogs. The Peruvian Hairless Dog, which appeared around 300 C.E. and still exists today, is part of Peru’s national heritage. This discovery provides valuable insights into the historical relationship between humans and dogs in the region.
Conclusion
These discoveries highlight the important role dogs played in ancient Peruvian societies. From potential guides in the afterlife to sacrificial victims in burial rites, dogs were deeply intertwined with human life and death. Continued research in this area promises to unveil more about the complex relationship between humans and dogs in pre-Columbian Peru.
