Interdisciplinary museums: Archaeological research, conservation and communication at the Pachacamac archaeological sanctuary

Abstract

The archaeological sanctuary of Pachacamac, located in the city of Lima, is one of the most representative sites for pre-Hispanic history and symbolizes a foundational moment for Peruvian national identity. The Pachacamac Museum exhibits an important collection, product of archaeological investigations at the site, which display knowledge about the meaning of Pachacamac. These objects are cared for and analyzed by specialists and are subject to various preventive conservation measures for exhibition. The methodology for collections management in the museum considers several aspects developed under goals of sustainability and harnessing of technology for social use of collections for the benefit of the community. One of the main focuses of current management is a Community Development Program that includes educational projects and constant collaboration with the local community. This allows the values of the sanctuary to be socialized and appropriated by the community, thus contributing to its protection. The work carried out by the museum: archaeological research, preventive conservation, collections management and community outreach have been enhanced through the inter-institutional collaboration with academic entities and international cooperation agencies. These alliances managed by the museum constitute important contributions for the creation of knowledge and preservation of cultural heritage. The Pachacamac Museum considers the dissemination of its actions to be essential and reaches out to various audiences through a system of scheduled publications and use of digital platforms. These goals are possible to fulfill thanks to the effort of a multidisciplinary team that considers the social use of heritage paramount for the future.