Unveiling a Hidden Heritage
Nestled in the remote northern region of Peru, Kuelap is set to emerge as a prominent tourist destination, renowned for its Inca mummies and rich archaeological history. This ancient city, often referred to as the “Machu Picchu of the north,” is on a transformative journey to capture the attention of travelers around the globe.
The Discovery of Inca Mummies
In 1997, a remarkable find was made in the Laguna de Los Condores area, where the largest collection of undisturbed Inca mummies was uncovered. These preserved bodies of the elite Inca civilization have opened a window into the past, allowing researchers to study organic remains in ways previously unimaginable. Dr. Sonia Guillen, a leading bio-anthropologist, states, “Laguna de Los Condores has allowed us to look at the other side of the moon, archaeologically speaking.”
Despite challenges such as looting and damage, the 219 mummies are now safely housed in the Leymebamba Museum, thanks to a project funded by the British Museum.
The Importance of Kuelap
Kuelap, a fortified city constructed by the Chachapoya around 800 AD, predates Machu Picchu by 700 years. Built high in the Andes at 3,000 meters above sea level, Kuelap served as a political and religious center, with over 100 skeletons found within its walls, reflecting the significance the Chachapoya and Inca people placed on their dead.
Historian Peter Lerche notes, “Approximately 90% of Chachapoyan archaeology remains undiscovered,” suggesting that new findings could emerge at any moment.
Video
Enhancing Accessibility
To facilitate tourism, Peru is investing in its first cable car and upgrading the local airport for commercial flights. This $21 million initiative aims to reduce travel time from Lima to Kuelap from 12 hours to just three.
“Last year, 30,000 people visited Kuelap; we expect that number to double within the first year of the cable car’s opening,” says Carlo Magno Galoc, president of the Association of Travel Agencies.
A Community on the Brink of Change
The provincial capital, Chachapoyas, is preparing for a tourism boom. Business owners, including hotelier Miriam Cauenero Mori, are expanding their services to accommodate the expected influx of visitors.
While the project promises economic growth, some experts warn that funds should also focus on preserving Kuelap. “Some sectors are in emergency,” warns Mr. Lerche, stressing that only around 5% of the site has been excavated.
A Future of Discovery
Dr. Guillen is optimistic that the rise in tourism will lead to increased funding for archaeological research and conservation efforts. A newly discovered site filled with sarcophagi awaits proper excavation, but it has already suffered from looting.
“If more tourists come, we will have more funds. We would be able to focus on research, not just our survival,” she emphasizes, highlighting the delicate balance between tourism and preservation.
Kuelap stands ready to share its ancient secrets, inviting the world to explore its historical treasures.
