Archaeologists in Peru have unearthed over 100 dog skeletons dating back approximately 1,000 years in the Parque de las Leyendas, Lima. These findings provide insights into the cultural and ritual significance of dogs in pre-Columbian Peru.
The excavations 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 dating back millennia, representing a transitional period for coastal societies from the Lima culture (300-800 C.E.) to the Ychsma culture (900-1470 C.E.).
The dogs were buried in resting positions, wrapped in textiles similar to those used for humans. Most belonged to street dog breeds still present in Peru today. Some of the dogs were so well-preserved that their skin, hair, and even noses and ears remained intact. Initial observations suggest that 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.
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The presence of dogs and humans buried together is unusual. In other Peruvian sites, dogs have been found in separate cemeteries, indicating a different kind of ritual. 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.
Archaeologists suggest that the simultaneous burials of dogs and humans might have been part of a ritual sacrifice, potentially after 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.
The Parque de las Leyendas continues to be 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.
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.
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.
