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Peruvian royal tomb reveals secrets behind a long-lost empire

Peruvian royal tomb reveals secrets behind a long-lost empire

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Not much is known about the Wari empire, which is thought to have ruled over what is now coastal Peru from the 4th to the 11th century. Indeed, some question whether the South American society should even be referred to as an empire. But a royal tomb discovered a four- hour drive away from the Peruvian capital of Lima has revealed some of the structure and traditions of Wari society. The remains of over 60 people, including 3 Wari queens, were found among over a thousand artifacts, including gold tools, bronze axes, and "sophisticated gold and silver jewelry." Evidence found in the tomb points toward a people that participated in royal ancestor worship, and archaeologists expect it will take another eight-to-ten years to fully explore the site.