Sarcophagi of Karajia | Amazonas
The Karajía sarcophagi are located in the district of Luya, province of Luya, in the Amazon region of northern Peru. They are located on a rocky cliff in a remote and steep area, which makes them somewhat difficult to access, but also contributes to their aura of mystery and fascination. To visit them, it is usually necessary to hike from the nearby town of Cruz Pata.
They are situated at an altitude of around 2,800 meters above sea level. This mountainous region of the Peruvian Andes is characteristic of the geography of the place and contributes to the impressive panoramic view that can be appreciated from the site.
History of the Sarcophagi of Karajia | Amazonas
Nestled in the rugged beauty of the Marañon Canyon, in the department of Amazonas, Peru, are the enigmatic Sarcophagi of Karajia. These anthropomorphic tombs, sculpted in limestone, rise imposingly over the cliff, defying the passage of time and silently narrating the history of the Chachapoyas culture.
A Surprising Discovery:
The Karajía Sarcophagi were discovered in 1985 by Peruvian archaeologist Federico Kauffmann Doig, thanks to the references of a local named Carlos Torres Mas. Its remote and rugged location had kept this archaeological treasure hidden for centuries.
A Cultural Legacy:
The Karajía Sarcophagi belong to the Chachapoyas culture, a civilization that flourished in the northeastern Andes of Peru between the 9th and 15th centuries AD. The Chachapoyas, also known as “The Men of the Clouds”, were skilled warriors, farmers and artisans. Their cultural legacy is reflected in various works, such as the fortresses of Kuélap and Gran Pajatén, the chullpas (burial towers) and, of course, the Karajía Sarcophagi themselves.
Unique Characteristics:
Karajía Sarcophagi are characterized by their anthropomorphic shape, that is, they imitate the silhouette of the human body. They are made from a single piece of limestone rock and present a series of decorative elements carved on their surface, such as headdresses, ear flares, necklaces and bracelets. These decorative elements allow us to learn about aspects of the clothing, jewelry and symbolism of the Chachapoyas culture.
A Mystery to be deciphered:
The Sarcophagi of Karajía house in their interior the remains of important characters of the Chachapoyas elite. It is presumed that these individuals were mummified and placed in fetal position inside the sarcophagi, accompanied by offerings that included ceramics, textiles and metal objects.
A Funerary Sanctuary:
The location of the Karajía Sarcophagi in places of difficult access, such as caves, cliffs and steep slopes, suggests that these were not only burial sites, but also funerary shrines where ancestors were venerated. Their strategic location in the Marañón canyon, a sacred place for the Chachapoyas, reinforced this idea.
What do we find in the Karajia Sarcophagi?
The sarcophagi of Karajía contain the remains of important members of the ancient Chachapoyas civilization, dating back to the pre-Inca period in Peru.
- Human remains: The sarcophagi contain the skeletal remains of important individuals from the Chachapoyas civilization.
- Funerary objects: Various funerary objects have been found within the sarcophagi, such as ceramics, textiles, and tools, which accompanied the deceased on their journey to the afterlife.
- Stylized human figures: Each sarcophagus represents a stylized human figure, carved into the cliffs, with a cone-shaped head.
- Decorations: The sarcophagi are adorned with details reflecting the attire and accessories used by the elite of Chachapoyas society.
- Inscriptions and carvings: On the walls of the surrounding cliffs, inscriptions and carvings can be found, providing further insight into the culture and beliefs of the Chachapoyas civilization.
These elements constitute the primary archaeological findings in the sarcophagi of Karajía, which are an important archaeological site in ancient Peru.
How to get to the Karajia Sarcophagi?
To reach the sarcophagi of Karajía, it requires a bit of planning and adventure, as they are located in a remote and rugged area in northern Peru. Here’s a basic guide on how to get there:
- Travel to Chachapoyas: The common starting point to reach the sarcophagi of Karajía is the city of Chachapoyas, the capital of the Amazonas region in Peru. You can travel to Chachapoyas by bus from cities like Lima or Cajamarca, or there are also flights available from Lima to Chachapoyas.
- Arrange a tour or private transportation: Once in Chachapoyas, you can arrange a tour or hire private transportation to take you to the sarcophagi of Karajía. Many tour agencies in Chachapoyas offer guided excursions to the sarcophagi, which usually include transportation, a tour guide, and sometimes meals.
- Travel to Cruz Pata: The starting point for the hike to the sarcophagi of Karajía is the small village of Cruz Pata. From Chachapoyas, you can take a vehicle to this village, which usually takes around 2-3 hours by car.
- Hike to the sarcophagi: From Cruz Pata, a guided hike to the sarcophagi is required. The hike can take between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the pace and trail conditions. It’s important to come prepared with comfortable footwear, water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Guided tour: Once you are at the Karajía sarcophagi, you will enjoy a guided tour to learn more about the history and culture of the Chachapoyas civilization.
However, it is advisable to consult with local tour agencies in Chachapoyas for up-to-date information on transportation options and visits to the Karajía sarcophagi, as well as to ensure a safe and well-organized experience.
Recommendations for visiting the Sarcophagi of Karajia
Here are some recommendations for visiting the sarcophagi of Karajía:
- Plan ahead: Make sure to plan your visit in advance, including transportation and accommodations if you’re staying in Chachapoyas or nearby.
- Guided tour: Consider joining a guided tour to the sarcophagi. A knowledgeable guide can provide valuable information about the history, culture, and significance of the site.
- Wear appropriate clothing and footwear: The hike to the sarcophagi can be challenging, so wear comfortable hiking shoes and clothing suitable for outdoor activities. Additionally, consider bringing rain gear and layers, as weather conditions in the region can change rapidly.
- Stay hydrated and bring snacks: bring water and snacks, as there are no stores along the way.
- Respect the site: Remember that the sarcophagi are ancient archaeological sites and should be treated with respect. Avoid touching or climbing on the structures, and follow any instructions or guidelines provided by your guide.
- Take precautions against altitude sickness: The region around Chachapoyas is at a high altitude, so take it easy and allow yourself time to acclimatize if you’re not used to high altitudes. Consider consulting with a healthcare professional before your trip if you’re concerned about altitude sickness.
- Bring a camera: Don’t forget to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the stunning views and unique features of the sarcophagi and surrounding landscape.
- Be prepared for a unique experience: Visiting the sarcophagi of Karajía is a unique and memorable experience, but it requires some effort and adventure. Embrace the opportunity to explore this fascinating archaeological site and learn about the ancient Chachapoyas civilization.
