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This discovery in the Andes points to intriguing cults. The trail also leads to the Incas
What did the Incas believe in and what were their rituals like? A recent discovery in the Andes is unique, according to archaeologists. Here’s what we learn.
Archaeologists on the trail of the Incas
This time the attention of archaeologists has been turned to Bolivia. There, in the highland region of Carangas, researchers have found surprising ritual points from pre-Hispanic times. The discovery in the Andes is linked to both the Incas and the so-called wak’a cult. In total, the researchers identified 135 ceremonial points. One of them stands out with features uncommon to the Andean region.
First, however, it is worth looking at the important similarities. The authors of an article published in the scientific journal Antiquity say that ceramic pieces dating from 1250–1600 found on the discovered sites are a clues pointing to a wak’a cult.
Surprising discovery in the Andes
The wak’a cult is a group of traditional religious practices and beliefs practiced by the indigenous people of the Andean region. They center primarily around the worship of sacred mountains, known as Apus, and Pachamama, Mother Earth. These cults also include ritual sacrifices…
