The Archaeological Excavations and the Protection of Cultural Heritage in Relation with the Local Society: Experiences in Peru

The archaeological site of Kuntur Wasi is located in the northern highlands of the Peruvian Andes. Excavations at the site were carried out by Japanese specialists in cooperation with Peruvian archaeologists and local villagers. The discovery of 3000 year old gold objects led to the construction of a museum in the village to protect the site and its portable artifacts. The present article describes the process of museum building and administration to throw light on the importance of communication between researchers and local people.