Royal hall discovery hints at female leadership in ancient Moche
A team of archaeologists working in the Nepeña River valley in western Peru has discovered a royal hall, suggesting that a woman led the pre-Columbian Moche civilisation in the 7th century.
The royal hall was discovered at the Panamarca archaeological site, where the Moche culture thrived, from AD 350 to 850. During the research, pillars, paintings, and a throne were found, suggesting the presence of a local community leader. Researchers from Columbia University and the Denver Museum of Nature and Science (USA) indicate that these findings may suggest a female leader.
In the so-called Moche imagination hall, paintings depicting a "strong woman" were found. Her image also adorns the throne, which scientists believe confirms that she was a real leader, not a mythical figure or goddess. Additionally, the throne was decorated with green beads and fine threads—materials prized by the women of this culture.
Archaeologists also discovered paintings depicting men, women, and animals such as dogs, deer, and snakes. The Moche people conduct frequent motifs of battle scenes, providing insight into their social and military life.
Moche civilisation
The Moche civilisation is an ancient pre-Inca civilisation known for using advanced construction techniques. They built step pyramids out of adobe brick and extensive cities, the most famous of which is Chan Chan. The civilisation was also renowned for its advanced metalwork, ceramic, and textile techniques. They employed sophisticated agricultural techniques related to field irrigation.
Previous archaeological research has confirmed that the Moche civilisation co-created a highly organised society with a hierarchical class system.
Discoveries in Panamarca shed new light on the social structure of this ancient civilisation and suggest that women may have played key roles within it.
