NINE TOMBS HAVE been discovered in Peru, a find that sheds new light on the origins of the Inca empire.
Archaeologists discovered the nine tombs in the Peruvian Andes. Upon excavation they discovered they dated from the pre-Hispanic Wari civilisation, the Daily Mail reports.
Archaeologists say the finding in the southern Cusco region suggests a people named the Wari, who lived in the Peruvian Andes between 700 and 1200 AD, may have controlled areas where the Inca empire later grew.
The Incas were responsible for building the largest empire in the New World between the years 1400 and 1532 AD, but their reign came to an end when Spanish conquistadors took over their territory.
The Incas took refuge in the Vilcabamba district in Cusco, which is where the tombs were found.
One of the prize finds was the remains of a Wari noble, who was buried wearing a silver breastplate.
“This is the most important discovery we’ve had in recent years – perhaps since Machu Picchu,” said Juan Garcia, regional culture director of Cusco.
Around half a million people visit Machu Picchu every year and its 100 year discovery will be celebrated in July.
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