Archaeologists in Peru have uncovered the skeletal remains of an adult believed to have been placed as a ritual offering more than 1,300 years ago.
The remains were discovered at Huaca Pucllana, a pre-Hispanic ceremonial and administrative centre in the heart of modern-day Lima.
The body was found inside an underground ceremonial canal, lying on its left side with its skull tilted westward towards the sea and a mud pyramid within the complex.
Archaeologist Gladys Paz, who is leading the excavation, says the position of the remains points to an intentional ritual placement.
"We are looking at the discovery of a human offering found inside a ceremonial canal belonging to the Lima culture," said Paz. "We are located at Huaca Pucllana, which corresponds to Sector B of Huaca Chica, at what would have been the main gate or entrance to the ceremonial center around 650 AD."
The discovery offers archaeologists an opportunity to learn more about how ceremonies were conducted at the site more than 1,300 years ago.
The excavation has also uncovered ceramic pieces, adding further evidence of activity at the ceremonial centre.
Huaca Pucllana is part of the modern landscape of Lima, where ancient archaeological sites can be found alongside the city's homes, businesses and public infrastructure.
Archaeologist Micaela Alvarez says this contrast is one of the features that makes the site particularly striking for visitors.
"It's a characteristic of Huaca Pucllana for quite a few decades now; in fact, it’s almost what attracts people who come to visit us, to find such an ancient archaeological site right in the middle of the city; it’s surprising, really."
The Lima culture flourished on Peru's central coast between 100 and 700 AD, before the rise of the Inca Empire.
Pucllana was one of its major ceremonial and administrative centres.
The discovery is not an isolated example of Lima's pre-Hispanic past. More than 400 sacred sites belonging to pre-Hispanic cultures are scattered throughout the capital, according to official data.
The remains are expected to be removed from the excavation site in the coming days.
For archaeologists, the find provides another glimpse into the rituals and beliefs of the people who lived in the area long before modern Lima was founded.
