While exploring the Andean highlands, many archeologists have found several pre-Columbian remains that depict the origin of other famous civilizations, like the Incas for example. Puno is one of those regions where many important societies build their homes, temples and administrative centers.
Cutimbo is an archeological complex built between 1100 and 1532 A.D. though the occupation of the site dates back to 8000 and 2000 B.C. where cave paintings represent a part of the life of our ancestors.
The pre-Hispanic cultures that inhabited these lands used to build burial towers for the members of their elite. These important characters were buried along with their belongings, ranging from domestic artifacts to gold, silver and copper jewelry, just like in the Sillustani Archeological Site.
The ancient tradition was replicated by different civilizations, including the Incas. Continue reading and learn more about the history of ancient Peru.
As aforementioned, the burial place of Cutimbo is over 900 years old. It is composed of several funerary towers built by Lupacas culture though it was later occupied by the Collas and Incas, following the same structures until ‘perfectioning’ it.
The tombs are called Chullpas and have different shapes, where circular, rectangular and square foundations held the bodies of renowned characters of these different cultures. The Chullpas had an internal burial chamber, enclosed with carved stones joined with clay mortar.
However, this high-altitude cemetery wasn’t only intended for the elite since there are minor tombs located in its surroundings, including a cave that holds an ancient secret carved in its walls. The cave paintings date back to the 8000 B.C. and the location also served as a collective burial place.
The mummies found in this cave were buried in a fetal position along with other objects - presumably offerings or their belongings - They were also covered with textiles.
However, there’s no information about the cause of death of these individuals though some archeologists think they could have been human sacrifices. However, they could correspond to some kind of ritual since the remains were relocated to this place.
As we mentioned before, the pre-columbian ruins are located within the region of Puno, in the Pichacani district, a few kilometers away from the city.
We highly recommend visiting these ruins with a professional tour guide since there’s a lot of history and mysteries involved in this location that you surely don’t want to miss.
Our Cutimbo Tour takes you through the most visually striking natural scenery of Puno on the way to the famous archeological site.
If you’re eager to know more about our history, include this excursion in your travel itinerary and start exploring Peru like a local expert! Contact our travel specialists for more information.
It only takes 40 minutes to get to Inca Uyo. The attraction is open all year round and the entrance is only S/. 3.00.
Would you like to know more about Peru? Here you’ll find all the information you need for your trip. Our local expert team has prepared the most complete informative guides for you!
Also, if you’re eager to know Peru at its fullest, check our travel packages and live an authentic experience with Viagens Machu Picchu.
