Museo Santuarios Andinos - Museum Arequipa - Peru

This museum, dedicated to high-altitude archaeology and its pioneer Johan Reinhard, is most famous for housing the mummified remains of 13-year-old Juanita. Shortly after arriving in the area, the Incas implemented the practice of sacrificing children on the peaks of the area’s highest volcanoes. Archaeologists believe that the children were sacrificed as part of a Capac Cocha ceremony aimed at appeasing the apus, or mountain spirits. While the idea of human sacrifices may seem a bit gruesome by modern day standards, such a death was considered an honor during the Inca period. In addition to Juanita, the museum is home to 18 other mummies discovered atop volcanoes in Peru, Argentina and Chile. The mummies are displayed with the textiles, gold, ceramics and woodcarvings that were found in their tombs.

Location:

Calle La Merced 110

Museum, Historical Building Types:
Archaeology, Anthropology

Travel Tips:

The star attraction, Juanita, goes on conservation retreat January-April and returns promptly on May 1.

Price Description:

Adult $7.50, students (including university, with ID) $3.25, children under 5 free. Special Peruvian rate: 25 soles for group or family of up to 5 persons.

The entrance fee includes a mandatory one-hour guided tour (in English, French, Italian, Portuguese or Spanish; please tip guide) that features a National Geographic documentary.

Relative price: Mid-Range

Open Hours from:Monday-Sunday 9 a.m.

Open Hours to:Monday-Saturday 6 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m.

Days Closed:Closed December 25, January 1.

Travel Skills: None

Currencies accepted
Peruvian nuevo sol

Contact Information:
Phone: 215-013 / 286-614, anexo 0
URL: www.ucsm.edu.pe/santury