Lima’s Screaming Skull: Inca Trepanning’s 1,600-Year Legacy
The ancient art of cranioplasty: Cranioplasty, the surgical repair of a bone defect in the skull, has a long and fascinating history. One of the oldest and most notable examples of this procedure comes from ancient Peru, around 400 AD. C. This historic cranioplasty not only displays the advanced medical knowledge of pre-Columbian cultures, but also highlights their skill in metallurgy and their understanding of human anatomy. An excellent example of this ancient medical feat is currently on display at the Museo del Oro del Perú y de Armas del Mundo in Lima, attracting scholars and enthusiasts alike to marvel…
4 min read