Archaeologists in Panama have uncovered a gold-laden burial over 1,000 years old at the El Caño site in Coclé Province, known as Tomb 3.

The tomb contains gold chest plates, arm cuffs, ear ornaments, and finely crafted ceramics, highlighting the high status of the primary individual buried there.

Excavations revealed a complex structure with multiple prestige objects, reflecting the social and political hierarchy of the community between the 8th and 11th centuries A.D.

Analysis confirms the gold artifacts are of local Panamanian origin, linked to the Gran Coclé period, and the designs indicate the deceased’s family lineage, the New York Post has reported.

While at least three individuals have been identified, archaeologists expect more burials and plan to continue excavations through the 2027 season.