EcoSwell Partners with the Wiese Foundation - Uniting to Preserve Peru's Rich Cultural Heritage
In 2005, archaeologists from the Wiese Foundation discovered the skeleton of the Lady of Cao (Senora de Cao), a 1,500-year-old mummy in a tomb located at the top of a burial site Huaca de Cao in Northern Peru. This is one of the most important archaeological discoveries, indicating that women in Moche culture were able to achieve high status in society. The Lady of Cao was bundled in layers of textiles, with a gold bowl dome over her face, a large ceremonial copper club, and tattoos of spiders and snakes covering her arms. Before her discovery, these types of figures were thought to only belong with male mummies. Archaeologists also found priestesses buried nearby, however the club and crown of the Lady of Cao identified her as a ruler. An incredible discovery!
The Wiese Foundation has been at the forefront of archaeological conservation and sustainable development in this region, developing a state-of-the-art archaeological museum at the El Brujo archaeological site. They have led major excavations and research projects that have unveiled remarkable discoveries about Peru’s ancient civilizations. Their work not only preserves history but also fosters national pride and educates local communities on the importance of their cultural roots including the role of women in pre-Hispanic civilizations.
EcoSwell are excited to announce a new partnership with the Wiese Foundation, an NGO and family foundation located in Northern Peru that specializes in archaeology and cultural heritage. Founded in 1960, its mission is to mobilize individuals and institutions towards sustainable development in Peru through archaeology and cultural preservation.
Want to get involved? EcoSwell’s newest Archaeology & Cultural Heritage program offers a unique opportunity for volunteers to engage in archaeological discovery while contributing to sustainable development in Peru by going on-site and volunteering directly with the Wiese Foundation. The volunteer internship participants will work alongside experts in excavation, research, and conservation, gaining hands-on experience uncovering Peru’s rich past, and professional development in the field of archaeology, while implementing initiatives that benefit local communities. EcoSwell volunteers will have the opportunity to get involved with workshops, cultural events and take an active role in helping the Wiese Foundation in its archaeological advances.
Here at EcoSwell, we are very excited for this collaboration, and it marks a significant step forward in the expansion of our sustainability impact in Peru. Through this new partnership, EcoSwell can support sustainability initiatives in archaeology that will ensure the long-term protection of these historical sites. The volunteer opportunities to create impact at EcoSwell now include renewable energy, water conservation, ecosystem restoration, public health efforts and archaeological conservation, creating a model where cultural heritage and environmental sustainability go hand-in-hand.
University students, Postgraduates, working professionals, researchers and individuals looking to learn about sustainability in practice in the Global South are invited to be a part of this extraordinary journey, you can take a look at our other programs here.
Come with us to uncover Peru’s ancient past whilst building a sustainable future. For more information on how to get involved check out our Archaeology & Cultural Heritage position and discover how you can contribute to this transformative initiative!
