The archaeological complexes are testimony to the cultures that were established in Ancient Peru. Our country is one of the richest in the world in terms of the presence of such evidence; the monuments are ubiquitous, extensive and generally monumental. Therefore, it is necessary to have the support of institutions that promote, finance and execute research and conservation projects in these spaces. Among others, that is the work that the Wiese Foundation has been developing through the El Brujo Archaeological Program.
Thus, intervening in the investigation, conservation and enhancement of the monument, more than 147 jobs, 415,326 tourists, 26 businesses and more than 41,500 people impacted have been generated. In addition, it integrates the communities neighboring the tourist destination, guarantees the access of diverse public to the knowledge generated and, of course, promotes new scientific research projects thanks to the collaboration of organizations, institutions and strategic allies.
Many tasks of the Wiese Foundation are focused on the conservation and maintenance of the evidence revealed in the El Brujo Archaeological Complex, mostly related to the Huaca Cao Viejo, a temple of the Moche epoch. This is reflected in the investment, construction and implementation of all the existing infrastructure in the archaeological site: the Cao Museum, the laboratory, the warehouses, the large roof that protects the main façade and the ceremonial plaza of the Huaca Cao Viejo, among other aspects that allow us to understand, contemplate and preserve the works of our ancestors.
During 2017, the Wiese Foundation made a digital record of the Lady of Cao, very accurate, to properly document such an important finding. This allowed the construction of a 3D digital model of the mummy, printing an amazing and exact replica, so that visitors could admire the leader in a freer way. In addition, it was possible to perform the facial reconstruction of the Moche leader thanks to the use of the latest techniques of forensic anthropology and specialized software. Its body, paraphernalia and reconstructed face can be contemplated in the Cao Museum.
The Wiese Foundation works for better Peruvians to forge the future of Peru. One way to achieve this goal is to promote research, conservation, enhancement and dissemination of the complex and rich cultural heritage. And for those who wonder why the motivation of the team of this institution, we must say that we are inspired by the love of the country and the passion that characterized its founder, Mr. Guillermo “Pancho” Wiese, who initiated this project in 1990.
