Capacocha

Capacocha, also spelled capacocha, is an Inca ritual of state-sponsored human sacrifice, typically involving children and adolescents who were offered to the gods to mark important political, military, or cosmic events. The term is derived from Quechua and is usually translated as “royal sacrifice” or “state ceremony.”

These sacrifices were organized by the Inca state and often involved selecting youths from various highland communities based on health, appearance, and noble status. The ceremonies took place at ceremonial sites in the Andes, frequently at sacred mountain locations (apus) or along important routes. Offerings accompanying the sacrifices included textiles, ceramics, metal objects, food, coca leaves, and chicha, reflecting a ritual program aimed at pleasing the gods, especially the sun god Inti, and ensuring communal well-being or prosperity.

Archaeology has provided much of what is known about capacocha. The best-known finds come from the Llullaillaco volcano on the Argentina-Chile border, where in 1999 archaeologists, led by Johan Reinhard, recovered three remarkably preserved mummies of young people dating to the late 15th or early 16th century. The individuals, including La Doncella (the Maiden) and two younger children, were found with elaborate clothing and a cache of offerings such as coca, maize, and ceremonial foods. Analyses indicate they were given coca and alcohol before death and perished in the high-altitude cold, illustrating the ritual logic and reach of the Inca state.

The capacocha rite largely ended with the Spanish conquest and the suppression of many indigenous religious practices. Today it is studied to understand Inca religion, politics, and social organization, as well as Andean ceremonial culture.