Guide to Settlement and Artificial Mummification of the Chinchorro Culture in the Arica and Parinacota Region

Overview

Welcome to a comprehensive guide on the fascinating Chinchorro Culture, located in the Arica and Parinacota Region of Chile and Peru. This ancient civilization, dating back over 7000 years, is renowned for its unique practice of artificial mummification.

Settlements

Geographical Location

The Chinchorro people inhabited the coastal desert regions, specifically along the western shores of the Pacific Ocean. The modern-day cities of Arica (Chile) and Tacna (Peru) mark the heart of their ancient territory.

Architecture and Urban Planning

Chinchorro settlements were primarily small, semi-subterranean structures made from a combination of local materials such as mud bricks, reeds, and wood. These dwellings were often designed with a central courtyard for communal activities. The urban planning was based on a grid system, with streets intersecting at right angles.

Artificial Mummification

History and Significance

The Chinchorro people developed the practice of artificial mummification around 5050 BC. This process predates Egyptian mummification by over a thousand years, making it one of the earliest known forms of mummification in the world.

Process

The Chinchorro mummies were created through a series of carefully executed steps:

1. Removal of Organs: The internal organs, except for the heart, were removed and treated separately.
2. Preservation: The body was then treated with natural preservatives such as natron (a mixture of minerals) or plant-based substances.
3. Reassembly: The body’s skin was carefully peeled off, the organs replaced in their original positions, and the skin sewn back on. In some cases, masks were created from the skin to replace the face.
4. Decoration: The mummies were often adorned with jewelry, tools, or other items that reflected the status of the individual during life.

Viewing Chinchorro Mummies

Visitors can view a collection of well-preserved Chinchorro mummies at the Museo Arqueológico Tamarugal in Arica, Chile. The museum also offers insight into the daily life and culture of the Chinchorro people.

Tourist Attractions

Arica City

Arica is a coastal city with stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can explore the city’s beautiful beaches, colonial architecture, and lively markets. The Mirador de Arica, a scenic lookout point, offers panoramic views of the city and coastline.

Parinacota Region

The Parinacota Region is a high-altitude desert landscape dotted with ancient ruins and picturesque villages. Key attractions include the Pukara de Aymara, an archaeological site dating back to the pre-Inca period, and the charming village of Putre, known for its traditional Aymara culture.

Conclusion

The Chinchorro Culture offers a fascinating insight into one of the earliest human civilizations in South America. By visiting the Arica and Parinacota Region, tourists can learn about this remarkable culture while enjoying the region’s stunning natural beauty and vibrant local customs.