BioArchaeological Research Project
Examines mortuary practices in the peruvian north higlands
Proyecto Arqueológico Huari-Ancash
Our Research
The study of burial patterns constitutes an important component of the examination of the ancient political organization and social identity. I believe that the study of tombs and their relationship to the landscape permits a discussion of how ancient peoples perceived the dead, as well as inform archaeologists about ritual practices. Burials can shed insight on those rituals and their relationship with the political and social organization by associating the type of tombs to large-scale modifications in public and ceremonial architecture.
Our research examines how changes in mortuary patterns were associated with transformations in political and social organization between AD 200 and 1600. There are 4 main categories of tombs: 1) funeral caves, 2) subterranean tombs, 3) cist tombs, and 4) chullpas (above ground burial structures). By applying a diachronic approach, we study: 1) how variation in tombs is reflected in public and ceremonial architecture, 2) if changes in tombs occur contemporaneously with changes in public and ceremonial architecture, 3) if there is continuity in the use of some type of tombs, and 4) rituals associated with the dead. Particular emphasis will be placed on the examination of chullpas holding over 50 individuals. Chullpas were places where ayllu-based social organization materialized. Ayllus were social groups based on kin with a common ancestor that worshiped a huaca or a sacred mountain. They were important because ayllus controlled rights over land, water, and labor management. Combining data of mortuary and settlement patterns, we will explore the links between changes in mortuary practice and changing sociopolitical circumstances in the region.
Experience Proyecto Arqueológico Huari-Ancash
Bioarcheology
Research Questions
Bioarcheology
The bio-archaeological research is an important part of the project. Marcajirca has many funerary structures, known as chullpas, as well as caves, and semi-caves with human remains. For this reason, Marcajirca has enormous potential for physical anthropological studies. This ensemble, (chullpas, caves, and grottos) around 50, most of them, with human bone remains inside. As the site is far from the city, we think it is necessary to implement a strategy which helps us to make quick analyses and optimize results.
Chronology
Research Questions
Bioarcheology
The project is focusing on the Early Intermediate perido and Late Intermediate Period (200 - 1500 AD). During this period there are 2 ethnic groups in the region. We want to compare the DNA of human bones from sites against other sites and the other group ethnic because this group has been identified through ethnohistorical information. Of course, our archaeological evidence will help us to have more information to make these comparisons.
Research Questions
Research Questions
Research Questions
Why are tombs dug and bones analyzed? The first aim of the research is to know the cult to ancestors; this subject has a deep relationship with funeral patterns. In this case, it is necessary to answer questions such as: were all persons buried in one tomb families or were there other relationships? Were the tombs re-used? Is there a chronological difference between the tombs?
Research Strategy
Community Outreach
Research Questions
Facing this question, we have designed a strategy which lets us answer these questions. First, it would be necessary to determine the minimum number of persons buried in one tomb and we think IT is possible to carry out this type of analysis on site. In order to determine if members from one family were buried in one tomb, we need to take bone samples for DNA analyses. To determine if tombs were re-used, first, we need to take bone samples for radio carbonic analyses after which the bones are contrasted to determine the bones’ age with DNA analyses. This procedure will help us to determine the chronology of tombs.
Community Outreach
Community Outreach
Community Outreach
The project is led by a local archaeologist. He is a member of the community and grew up in the region. The project's relationship with the locals has a family feel, as we are not strangers to the area. This helps us share our achievements on a daily basis, without the need for grand presentations.
Support Our Research and Cultural Preservation Activities
Your generous donations help us continue our archaeological research and educational programs. Join us in preserving our heritage and enriching our community. Every contribution makes a difference!
This project has over 20 years and it the only and the longest project in Peru working without state or guvernamental.