The great kingdom of Chimor, which emerged in 900 A.D. in what is now Peru, is still shrouded in many mysteries. One of them is the 2.5-meter high wall known as Muralla La Cumbre. For many years, scientists assumed that it was built to protect against Inca invasions. But recent research by archaeologist Gabriel Prieto of the University of Florida has uncovered a whole new function of the structure.
In examining the wall, Prieto found layers of flood deposits on it, but only on the east side. This led to the assumption that Muralla La Cumbre was built to protect the Chimu farmland to the west, near the coast. Radiocarbon data from the lowest strata indicate that construction of the wall began around 1100, possibly after the great El Niño flood.
However, an interesting fact is that one of the sediment layers along the wall dates back to about 1450, the same date when more than 140 children and 200 llamas were sacrificed in the kingdom of Chimor. This fact suggests that the Chimor rulers were aware of the danger of the El Niño floods, which occurred every few years. They probably sacrificed children to appease their gods and avoid natural disasters that inevitably led to agricultural crises.
History shows that many ancient civilizations made sacrifices to their gods in the hope of well-being and prosperity. In the kingdom of Chimor this was especially true because of the regular El Niño floods, which caused great damage to agriculture. The sacrifice of children and llamas was a kind of ritual that was supposed to appease the gods and ensure the well-being of the kingdom.
Today the Muralla La Cumbre wall is not only a testament to the architectural prowess of the Chimu, but also a direct witness to their faith and culture. It reminds us that our ancestors were looking for ways to resist natural disasters and ensure their safety.
At the same time, the wall also served as a symbol of the power and might of the Chimu. Its construction required considerable resources and labor, which emphasized the power and prestige of the kingdom. In addition, it played an important role in forming the border between the Chimu and neighboring tribes, which helped maintain territorial integrity and security.
Despite all the discoveries of archaeologists, many questions about the Chimeras remain unanswered. However, each new research brings us closer to understanding this enigmatic civilization and its unique culture.
