Many centuries ago, the Muisca people lived in the green mountains of South America. Their land was rich in precious emeralds, and they became fabulously wealthy. Their nobles wore lots of gold jewellery so everybody would know how important they were!
When a new Muisca chief was chosen, he had to undergo a special ceremony at Lake Guatavita. His body was smeared with mud and priests sprinkled him with gold powder, making him look like a golden man!
