Lady of Cao
On the beautiful northern coastline of Peru, overlooking the blue Pacific, one of the most mysterious monuments of the Moche people, Huaca El Brujo (Sacred Place of the Wizard), gives a rare glimpse into this ancient culture. The mummified body of a young woman was uncovered in the ruins, and, to this day, so much mystery surrounds her story that photos of the Lady and even the museum are prohibited.
The Lady of Cao was discovered in 2006 by a team of Peruvian archaeologists. The 1,500-year-old mummy may shed new light on the enigmatic Moche culture, which occupied Peru's northern coastal valleys from about AD 100 to 800. A modern autopsy indicated that the twenty-something Lady of Cao may have died of complications due to pregnancy or childbirth. Fascinatingly, her body is heavily tattooed, with images of serpents, crabs and spiders – all animals associated with the Moche pantheon of divine creatures – which leads scholars to believe she may have been a high priestess or ruler.
What is known about how the Lady of Cao ruled her pre-Incan empire is shocking. Murals depict post-battle rituals where victims were sacrificed naked and tied together. The Lady would send them to the top of the platform of the El Brujo Pyramid where their throats were slit, the blood collected in a goblet for their priestess queen to drink and offer to the gods.
The well-appointed and modern Cao Museum gives a complete overview of the El Brujo Archaeological Complex and the many ancient and intriguing objects that were found there, including funeral objects, weaving tools, and jewelry. Even so, “La Senora Cao’s” mummy is definitely the highlight.
Where to stay in Lady of Cao
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Lady of Cao accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Libertador Trujillo
The Libertador Trujillo is set within a colonial building in the town of Trujillo. This hotel has a central location and super friendly staff.
Hostal El Centurión
Hostal El Centurión is located in northern Peru – the cradle of Peruvian civilization. Staying here, you’ll have comfortable accommodations close to some of Trujillo’s most important archaeological sites and museums.
Costa del Sol Wyndham Trujillo
Costa del Sol Trujillo is located in northern Peru, an area that has attracted archaeologists because of its large number of pre-Columbian ruins. This hotel is comfortable and has all the amenities that busy travelers look for, with a spa and a pool to help you recover from the hot desert.
Costa del Sol Trujillo
Costa del Sol Trujillo is set just outside the city of Trujillo. The hotel features attractive rooms, breathtaking pools, and ample amenities.
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Insider-led Peru Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
