Attraction Guide: Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña, Salta, Argentina

Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña Guide

MAAM: Unveiling the Secrets of the Inca Ice Mummies Guide

The Museo de Arqueología de Alta Montaña (MAAM), or the High Mountain Archeology Museum, in Salta, Argentina, is a must-see for anyone interested in Inca history and culture. This museum is dedicated to the discovery and preservation of the "Children of Llullaillaco," three Inca mummies discovered near the summit of Volcán Llullaillaco, one of the world's highest volcanoes. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Inca rituals, beliefs, and the incredible preservation techniques used to protect these young individuals for over 500 years. The Children of Llullaillaco were discovered in 1999. They are believed to have been part of a capacocha ritual, a significant Inca ceremony involving human sacrifice. The children, a girl of about 15 and two younger children, were carefully prepared and placed in tombs on the mountain summit as offerings to the gods. The extreme cold and dry conditions at such high altitude naturally mummified the bodies, preserving not only their physical remains but also their clothing, artifacts, and even their last meals. The museum carefully rotates which mummy is on display to ensure their long-term preservation. Visitors to MAAM can learn about the Inca civilization, the capacocha ritual, and the scientific research conducted on the mummies. The museum features exhibits showcasing the clothing, pottery, and other artifacts found with the children. The museum also delves into the scientific processes used to study and preserve the mummies, providing insights into Inca life and death. Salta is also known for its empanadas, especially those filled with meat (carne) or cheese (queso). Be sure to try them at a local restaurant.