Carajía sarcophagi - Peru ,15th century

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Carajía or Karijia is a remarkable archaeological site nestled deep within the Utcubamba Valley, situated 48 kilometers northeast of the vibrant city of Chachapoyas, Peru, in the picturesque Luya Province, Amazonas Region. Here, eight enigmatic Chachapoyan mummies were unearthed on the rugged cliffside, respectfully referred to by local residents as the "ancient wise men." The seven (originally eight) intricately crafted sarcophagi rise majestically up to 2.5 meters tall, carefully constructed from a combination of clay, sturdy sticks, and resilient grasses, featuring distinctive exaggerated jawlines. Their remote location high above a breathtaking river gorge has miraculously preserved them from destruction by treasure hunters. Unfortunately, an earthquake struck in 1928, toppling one of the original eight mummies from its ancient perch.