Ep 3. Cliff Mummies of the Andes

In season 6, episode 3 of History's Mysteries, viewers are taken on a journey to learn about the fascinating Cliff Mummies of the Andes. This episode explores the discovery of these mummies and the mysteries that surround them.

The show begins with an introduction to the rugged terrain of the Andes Mountains, the highest mountain range in the world, which spans across seven countries in South America. On a mountain in Peru, archaeologists made a shocking discovery in 1995, when they found a group of bodies that were naturally mummified. These bodies belonged to the Inca people, who had lived in the Andes hundreds of years ago.

The mummified bodies were found on a cliff ledge over 12,000 feet above sea level, making the discovery even more surprising. The scientists were stunned to find over 100 mummies on the site, including individuals who had been buried alive, mummified children, and even a three-month-old infant who was buried alive with her mother.

The episode delves into the history of the Inca people, who were known for their advanced engineering skills and their ability to thrive in such a harsh environment. The Inca people were a very spiritual society and believed in life after death. The preservation of the mummies was a way to keep the spirits of the dead alive and to honor their ancestors.

The show takes a closer look at the mummification process used by the Inca people. Unlike the ancient Egyptians, who used embalming, the Inca people's mummification process was entirely natural. The dry and cold air of the Andes mountains preserved the bodies, creating natural mummies.

The archaeologists who discovered the Cliff Mummies of the Andes faced several challenges when trying to preserve the remains. Because the mummies were so old and fragile, they had to be transported down the mountain one at a time. The process of extracting the mummies took over two years, and many of the mummies were stolen before they could be properly preserved.

The episode continues to explore the aftermath of the discovery, including the legal battle over ownership of the mummies and the controversy surrounding their display. Some people felt that the mummies should be returned to their place of origin and treated with respect, while others believed that they should be studied and displayed in museums.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to stunning footage of the Andes Mountains and the incredible archaeological sites that have been discovered in the region. Interviews with archaeologists and historians shed light on the mysteries surrounding the Cliff Mummies of the Andes and provide insight into the lives of the Inca people.

Overall, this episode of History's Mysteries is a fascinating look at a little-known piece of history. The discovery of the Cliff Mummies of the Andes is a testament to the ingenuity of the Inca people and their commitment to preserving the memory of their ancestors. Anyone with an interest in archaeology, history, or ancient civilizations is sure to find this episode riveting.