Muyumoqo: Preliminary Results from a Late Formative (600 BCE - 200 CE) Center in Cusco, Peru

Despite the long history of archaeological interest in the Cusco region of Peru, research on pre-Inka societies has lagged behind other regions of the Andes. In particular, our understanding of the Late Formative (600 BCE - 200 CE) remains underdeveloped. Based on extensive surveys and limited excavation data, it has been argued that significant changes occurred in the economic and political realms during this period. The Late Formative is hypothesized to have been a time of increasing political complexity and expanding engagement in interregional exchange. However, the process behind how these changes came about remains unclear. In this talk, I utilize data from both regional surveys as well as excavations at various sites throughout the region to detail the current state of knowledge on Formative Cusco. After providing this background, I will present the results of two seasons of excavations at the site of Muyumoqo, a potential Late Formative political and economic center located in the Chit'apampa Basin. Extensive horizontal excavations have provided supporting evidence for Muyumoqo's role as an economic and political center during the Late Formative. As I will discuss, the site appears distinct from other known Late Formative communities and may provide early evidence for the consumption of chicha. Finally, I will also briefly discuss the finding of a potential, persistent household ritual practice.