Ep 10. The Moche-Richest Tombs in the New World

The Moche civilization was one of the greatest ancient civilizations of South America, and they are believed to have emerged around 100 AD. This episode takes viewers on a journey through Moche culture, exploration of their beliefs, and insight into their burial traditions. Archaeologists have uncovered Moche tombs that are believed to be the richest in the New World, and this episode takes viewers into these tombs, providing an unprecedented look into the lives of these ancient people.

The episode explores the intricate beliefs and ceremonies of the Moche and how they manifested in the tombs that contained their most important leaders, shamans, and warriors. These tombs are filled with a treasure trove of the riches of the Moche civilization, including artifacts made of precious metals, brightly colored textiles, ceramic vessels, and carvings in gold and silver, and even mummies.

One of the most fascinating aspects of these tombs is the ceremonial nature of the burial, with evidence of offerings made to accompany the deceased on their journey to the afterlife. The Moche believed that the afterlife was very similar to the earthly world. In a way, they believed that the dead continued to live their lives, as such, these tombs were packed with items that would be important for an individual to continue living. Archaeologists have even found that sacrificial victims, such as prisoners taken in battle, were often buried alongside the elite.

The tombs are a testament not just to the wealth of the Moche leaders and warrior aristocracy, but also to the skilled craftsmanship of Moche artists and craftsmen. The intricate designs and patterns on the objects found in the tombs illustrate the sophistication and creativity of these ancient people. Through the detailed and careful workmanship, Moche artisans brought to life the beliefs and values of their civilization.

The episode also explores the Moche worship of nature. They regarded the animals, plants, and weather as significant gods and goddesses, with notable figures such as the spider, serpent, and dragonfly regarded with particular importance. In this episode, viewers are treated to careful, detailed, and informative explanations of the culture and practices that gave rise to this rich tradition of reverence of nature.

During the course of the episode, viewers will also come to understand the need for preservation of Moche tombs and artifacts. The Moche civilization is long gone, but their legacy endures in the exquisite artifacts and tombs that have come to light as a result of painstaking excavations by modern-day archaeologists.

The Moche Richest Tombs of the New World is a hypnotic and informative exploration of a lost civilization. Throughout the journey, viewers are taken around some of the landmarks of ancient South America and given insights into Moche traditions, beliefs, and aesthetic values. For anyone with an interest in the history or culture of South America, this is a show that is not to be missed.