Sarcophagi of Carajía, Archaeological burial site in Utcubamba Valley, Peru
The Sarcophagi of Carajía are seven burial chambers lined up on a cliff face in the Utcubamba region, visible from below as a striking row of earthen structures. Each one was built from clay and has a face-like upper section with a lower chamber that once held human remains.
The burial site was created in the 15th century when the Chachapoya practiced this form of sky burial to honor their dead in their mountainous homeland. The arrival of Inca rule in the region decades later brought new influences and gradually transformed local traditions.
The sarcophagi reflect Chachapoya craftsmanship and their approach to honoring the dead through carefully prepared burial chambers and ritual objects. Visitors can observe how this mountain community integrated their spiritual beliefs into the physical landscape.
The hike to reach the observation point takes about 20 minutes on foot, and sturdy shoes are helpful for the uneven terrain. Early morning visits often provide clearer views since afternoon weather in the mountains can change quickly and affect visibility.
The structures bear red and white painted designs along with feathered headdresses and skulls mounted on top, marking them as both decorative and spiritual objects. This arrangement shows that the Chachapoya not only protected their dead but displayed them visibly in the sky.
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