With its white washed buildings made from sillar, a local volcanic stone, Arequipa, second largest town of Peru, is one of the most beautiful cities in the country and home to many fascinating remnants of Inca history. Most Peru packages will take you to this wonderful place, where it is truly a pleasure to stroll down the shaded streets and admire the delicate architecture. History enthusiasts will delight in the countless attractions of this city, among which the Juanita Mummy, also known as the Ice Maiden, which you cannot miss on your Arequipa explorations.
Juanita is the frozen body of an Inca girl, believed to have lived the 15th century between 1450 and 1480. She was discovered on Mount Ampato in the nearby Colca Valley by anthropologist Johan Reinhard in 1995. Also known as the Frozen Lady or the Lady of Ampato, Juanita is remarkably well preserved which made her an important discovery, even ranked among the top 10 world discoveries of 1995.
The Ice Maiden was discovered following a series of volcanic eruptions in the regions which melted the ice on top of the mountain and allowed her grave to be uncovered. She was luckily found before her body started to degenerate, allowing for great conservation.
The excellent preservation of the body allowed for several biological tests that gave new and fascinating insights into the Inca way of life. Juanita is believed to have been between 14 and 15 years old when she was sacrificed to the gods, as next to her body were found several ceremonial offerings also very well preserved. You can admire her alpaca shoes together with fine ceramic items as well as gold and silver idols dressed in feathers. The meaning of these offerings has yet to be established.
The Museum holding Juanita is located on Arequipa's main square, Plaza de Armas. Learn more about the great Inca Empire by paying a visit to this fascinating Museum, and if you are not too frightened, step into the temperature controlled room to take a look at Juanita's body.
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