Human remains at Caral, Peru: the earliest human sacrifice?

Abstract

Caral (5000-3000 BP), South America’s largest pre-ceramic complex, is located in the central coast of Peru. Its many pyramids, squares, and specialized residential units are currently in study. Despite the fact that no cemetery has been found for the city yet, the skeletal remains of a young man were found buried on the top the largest pyramid of the «sacred city.» This unusual discovery poses many questions. This paper presents the results of the study of this body, as well as some ideas about its relevance for Andean archeology