Paleoradiology opens new insights into frozen mummified children from Ampato and Sara Sara volcanoes, Peru

Abstract

A bioarchaeological investigation was conducted on four frozen remains of female non-adults, approximately 500 years old, using non-invasive computed tomography (CT) analysis. These individuals, recovered from the high-altitude sites of Ampato and Sara Sara volcanoes during 1990s expeditions, were sacrificed as part of the Inca capacocha, one of the most significant ceremonial rituals of the Inca Empire. Although extensively documented in later ethnohistorical chronicles, archaeological evidence of such burials remains limited. This study assesses their preservation, identifies post-depositional taphonomic processes, estimates ages at death, and reconstructs their paleopathological profiles. It also explores possible causes of death and the ritual transformation of these individuals into messengers to the gods. CT analyses revealed distinct taphonomic patterns, including natural mummification, lightning-induced damage, and artificial preservation. Ampato #4 represents a secondary burial, with missing skeletal and soft tissue elements replaced by textiles. Ampato #1 (the “Lady of Ampato”) exhibited probable peri-mortem trauma to the skull, thorax, and pelvis. Ampato #2 displayed signs of cranial trauma, a potential case of megaesophagus. Sara Sara exhibits signs of head trauma and internal organ calcification. These findings enhance our understanding of Inca sacrificial practices, highlighting the diversity of ritual treatments and the symbolic transformation of children into sacred intermediaries. Evidence of possible secondary burial (Ampato #4) and continued manipulation suggests that the ritual role of capacocha victims extended beyond death, reinforcing their importance within local religious landscapes and community memory.