Peru’s Ministry of Culture revealed a reconstructed bust of the ancient Peruvian ruler the Lord of Sipán in honor of the 30th anniversary of his discovery.
The Lord of Sipán is one of Peru’s most well-known ancient rulers.
His tomb’s discovery by Walter Alva was absolutely groundbreaking for investigators of the Moche culture. Andina reports, in fact, that the discovery was so important that a visiting Egyptian archaeologist considers it to be for the Moche culture what King Tut was for the ancient Egyptians.
The Moche civilization ruled on Peru’s northern coast in parts of what is now Ancash, Trujillo, La Libertad, Lambayeque, and Piura.
The Lord of Sipán was found in the royal tombs of Lambayeque, transforming the region into a tourist destination as it had never been known before.
He was found adorned with jewelry and surrounded by treasure. Alongside him in the tomb were 6 other people and a dog (the native Peruvian hairless type).
Investigators from Peru and Brazil reconstructed the face of the Lord of Sipán as it once was, based on actual bone scans of his remains.
Peru’s Ministry of Culture presented the bust this past Friday to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the finding of the ancient ruler’s tomb.
Don’t forget to check out the face of the Lady of Cao, a powerful Moche priestess, in case you missed it. For more on the Moche culture check out this video about their famous place of worship, Huaca de la Luna.
Now that you're here:
We're asking you, our reader, to make a contribution in support of our digital guide in order to keep informing, updating and inspiring people to visit Peru. Why now? In our near 20-year journey as the leading English-language source on travel in Peru, we've had our fair share of ups and downs-but nothing quite like the challenges brought forth in the first quarter of 2020.
By adapting to the changing face of the tourism and travel industry (on both local and international levels), we have no doubt we will come out stronger-especially with the support of our community. Because you will travel again, and we will be ready to show you the best of Peru.
Your financial support means we can keep sharing the best of Peru through high-quality stories, videos and insights provided by our dedicated team of contributors and editors based in Peru. And of course, We are here to answer your questions and help whenever you need us.
As well, it makes possible our commitment to support local and small businesses that make your visit an unforgettable one. Your support will help the people working in these industries get back on their feet once the world allows us to make our dream of enjoying everything Peru has to offer a reality again-from its mouthwatering gastronomy, thriving Amazon and archaeological wonders such as Machu Picchu.
Together, we will find a way through this. As a member of our community, your contribution, however big or small, is valuable.
Support Traveling & Living in Peru from as little as $1 - and it only takes a minute. Thank you!
