Archaeologists in Panama have uncovered the spectacular tomb of a pre-Hispanic chieftain whose funerary offerings include lavish
The burial was discovered within a necropolis known as the El Caño archaeological park, where other tombs as well as stone monoliths and wooden ceremonial structures have previously been found. According to the Panamanian
It’s currently unclear how many people were interred within the newly discovered grave, although archaeologists have confirmed that the Coclé lord was buried facedown on top of the body of a woman, as was customary for this society. Alongside the remains, researchers discovered large numbers of ceramic artifacts as well as gold pieces with enormous monetary and historical value.
Among these funerary items were five gold chest-plates, two belts of golden beads, two human-shaped earrings (one man and one woman), another earring in the form of a “double crocodile”, and a series of circular gold plates. A further five earrings decorated with gold-capped sperm whale teeth were also found in the tomb, as were bracelets and clothing elaborated with dog teeth.
Other objects buried with the chieftain include a series of bone flutes, two rattles, and a beaded necklace. Archaeologists are still in the process of
Thought to have existed from roughly 200 BCE to 1550 CE in what is now Panama, the Gran Coclé culture is known for its skillfully created