Mummy of San Andrés

The Mummy of San Andrés is a male specimen from the 15th century, discovered in a cave near San Andrés village. The body is wrapped in goatskin held together by six strips, and belonged to a person aged 25 to 30 years.

The mummy dates to the pre-conquest period before Spanish arrival in the 15th century on the Canary Islands. It was found in a burial cave within the Anaga massif, along with ceramic bowls meant as offerings for the afterlife.

The burial suggests this person held an important position in Guanche society, possibly as a leader or dignitary. The objects placed with the remains show how much such individuals mattered to their community.

The specimen can be viewed at the Museum of Nature and Man in Santa Cruz, where it is displayed alongside other Guanche objects. The location is easily accessible and offers a clear overview of indigenous burial practices.

This mummy shows remarkably well-preserved anatomical features that allowed researchers to learn much about the individual's physical health. The way the body was positioned and prepared differs from other known examples from that period.