Several marine mollusks were also discovered outside the tomb.

“After the body is placed in the grave, there are constant events and activities,” said Mr. Vap Dalep Lυпa.

“That is, their descendants continue to return for many years and place food and offerings there, including mollusks.”

The mummy, believed to be a male, probably predated the Ica civilization, which dominated the southern part of South America 500 years ago.

“The discovery of this residence sheds new light on interactions and relationships in pre-Hispanic times,” said one of the archaeologists who led the excavation, Pieter Vaп Dalep Lυпa.

The map is believed to be between 25 and 30 years old and was probably an important person in contemporary society.

Indications indicate that the area was probably multiethnic and would have been occupied by settlers from the coast and the mountains, according to information published by the university.

Archaeologist Yomira Hυamáп Saпtilláп told CNN that the discovery was a surprise since the team was not looking for a mummy.

“The whole team was very happy because we didn’t think this was going to happen,” Hυamá told CNN.

“We did not expect to make such an important discovery.”