Cult of the Dead and funerary Architecture: A multidisciplinary approach from Marcajirca site in the north highlands of Peru AD 1000-1500

The cult of the dead is reflected in a diversity of rituals and types of tombs. Chullpas, funerary caves, underground burials and shelters tombs are present in Marcajirca. This diversity reflects the presence of diverse groups inhabiting the Puccha basin and the Huaritambo valley in the Ancash highlands. However, the cult of the dead is not static; it undergoes a series of modifications, probably due to competition from various ayllus that are being buried at the Marcajirca site. This study brings together the results of archaeological excavations, analysis of cultural material, human remains, radiometric dating and isotopes. The results indicate that Marcajirca functioned as a regional cemetery, where the tombs were used by multiple generations; social differentiation was minimal; food burning was permormed as part of offering rituals; and the sacred mountain Llamoq played an important and influential role in the cult of the dead.