A 1,200-year-old tomb full of gold treasure and human remains found in Panama
A groundbreaking archaeological discovery has uncovered a 1,200-year-old tomb filled with gold artifacts and human sacrificial remains in Panama. This extraordinary find offers a fascinating insight into the region’s rich history and cultural traditions, revealing a treasure trove of carefully crafted ornaments and ceremonial objects, as well as the remains of individuals believed to have been ritually sacrificed.
Located about 110 miles from Panama City, El Caño Archaeological Park has produced an extraordinary find. The grave, estimated to be around 1,200 years old, marks the final resting place of an elite chieftain of the local Coclé culture. But it’s not just the chieftain that lies within; Dozens of people may have been buried next to him, serving as companions on his journey to the afterlife.
Inside the tomb, scientists made amazing discoveries. The tomb contained a number of exquisite gold artifacts, each with its own story. Among them were bracelets, two belts made of gold beads, crocodile-shaped earrings, gold-plated earrings with sperm whale teeth, circular gold plates, earrings in the shape of a man and a woman, two bells, skirts made of dog teeth and a set of bone flutes.
Dr. Julia Mayo, director of the El Caño Foundation and head of the archaeological project, revealed that up to 31 other people were buried alongside the chief. These people were probably sacrificed to accompany him in the afterlife. The chief himself was buried face down on a woman’s body, which is common in such burials.
According to Linette Montenegro, National Director of Cultural Heritage at the Ministry of Culture, “The gold and artifacts found in the tomb have not only economic value, but also incalculable historical and cultural value.” They provide insight into the beliefs, rituals and social Structures of the Coclé culture in the early Middle Ages.
El Caño Archaeological Park, once a thriving necropolis, was built around 700 AD and abandoned around 1000 AD. It is a significant archaeological site due to its location in Coclé Province, approximately 100 miles southwest of Panama City. The park’s rich history continues to unfold, revealing secrets hidden for centuries.
As we marvel at the intricate gold jewelry and reflect on the lives of those who rest in this ancient tomb, we honor the legacy of the Coclé people and their enduring connection to the past.
Located about 110 miles from Panama City, El Caño Archaeological Park has produced an extraordinary find. The grave, estimated to be around 1,200 years old, marks the final resting place of an elite chieftain of the local Coclé culture. But it’s not just the chieftain that lies within; Dozens of people may have been buried next to him, serving as companions on his journey to the afterlife.
Inside the tomb, scientists made amazing discoveries. The tomb contained a number of exquisite gold artifacts, each with its own story. Among them were bracelets, two belts made of gold beads, crocodile-shaped earrings, gold-plated earrings with sperm whale teeth, circular gold plates, earrings in the shape of a man and a woman, two bells, skirts made of dog teeth and a set of bone flutes.
A picture of the unearthed gold treasure discovered in the chief’s tomb. Source: Ministry of Culture
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According to Linette Montenegro, National Director of Cultural Heritage at the Ministry of Culture, “The gold and artifacts found in the tomb have not only economic value, but also incalculable historical and cultural value.” They provide insight into the beliefs, rituals and social Structures of the Coclé culture in the early Middle Ages.
El Caño Archaeological Park, once a thriving necropolis, was built around 700 AD and abandoned around 1000 AD. It is a significant archaeological site due to its location in Coclé Province, approximately 100 miles southwest of Panama City. The park’s rich history continues to unfold, revealing secrets hidden for centuries.
As we marvel at the intricate gold jewelry and reflect on the lives of those who rest in this ancient tomb, we honor the legacy of the Coclé people and their enduring connection to the past.
