ScienceLanguage: English
Inka Rituals: Coca Leaves Found on Sacrificed Llamas
Key Takeaways
- Coca leaves were discovered in the wool of sacrificed llamas at Tambo Viejo.
- The site served as an important Inka provincial center in Peru.
- This evidence clarifies how the Inka integrated sacred plants into rituals.
- Excavations also revealed tasseled llamas and adorned guinea pigs.
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Archaeologists excavating the Tambo Viejo site in Peru's Acarí Valley have uncovered significant new evidence regarding Inka ritual practices. The discovery involves preserved coca leaves found embedded within the wool of sacrificed llamas.
This finding provides a rare physical link between the Inka's sacred plant offerings and their ceremonial animal sacrifices. It sheds light on the complex religious traditions maintained at this provincial center.
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