Ancient Moche Ritual Sacrifice of Family Members Discovered

Science

1 year ago

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Credited from: NEWSWEEK

Researchers identified a new form of **ritual sacrifice involving close relatives** within the ancient Moche culture of Peru.
The study published in PNAS focuses on **burials found at Huaca Cao Viejo**, offering insights into the elite social hierarchy of the time.
Analyses of six interred individuals indicate **biological relatedness** across four generations, showing kinship's role in maintaining power.
Notably, the **Señora de Cao**—a high-status female—was buried with a sacrificed juvenile female thought to be her niece, suggesting **family ties in elite rituals**.
This research broadens the understanding of Moche practices, underscoring the significance of **human sacrifice to reinforce familial and political bonds**.

For more information, visit the full article at Newsweek.