Andina

Get to know Mochica’s invaluable archaeological legacy

Sicán Musseum. Photo: ANDINA/Archive

00:15 | Lambayeque (Lambayeque region), Nov. 19.

The future of Peru’s northern Lambayeque region was changed by its past. When the burial chamber of Lord of Sipan was discovered 29 years ago, life in this peaceful region was not the same anymore.

Nowadays, it is considered a prosperous place inhabited by entrepreneurial people proud of their Moche identity. 

A series of discoveries have occurred until now, enriching this cultural legacy. 

Some examples of said archaeological wealth will be described below. 

Huaca Rajada Archaeological Complex


In 1987, Walter Alva and his team led one of Peru’s greatest archaeological discoveries by finding remains and entire grave goods including gold and turquoise pieces of Lord of Sipan, the Moche King. 

The said male mummy was found along with a warrior, a priest, two women, a dog, a llama, a child and guard, and a total of 1,150 ceramic pieces. 

Tucume Archaeological Complex


Tucume has become one of the Northern coast’s most significant pre-Hispanic monuments. The site hosts an approximately 220-hectare area, which includes 26 monumental buildings related to low-rank structures as squares, yards, canal systems, walls, among others.

Pomac Forest Historical Sanctuary


This Sanctuary houses the largest number of South America's pre-Inca pyramids related to Sican culture. 

The complex comprises over 20 pyramids made of adobe and mud. Besides being an archaeological sanctuary, Pomac is a natural park that shelters several tree varieties.

Chotuna-Chornancap Archaeological Complex


This complex is located 15 km from Lambayeque city. Its relevance lies on being the alleged cradle of Lambayeque culture. Decorated with friezes in low relief, the temple front is deemed as one of its most important relics.

Cerro Ventarron

It is a religious sanctuary that would represent the northern culture's cradle, as well as the Americas' most ancient wall.

Located 4 km from Pomalca district - Chiclayo province, the temple brings us to 2,600 B.C. It belongs to the Archaic or late pre-ceramic period. 

Royal Tombs Museum


Located in Lambayeque city, the Royal Tombs of Sipan Museum’s construction was inspired by Mochica culture’s old pyramids. This site hosts over 2,000 gold pieces. 

Among pieces exhibited to the public are Sipan’s jewelry, ceramics and grave goods.

Without a doubt, Museums of Sican, Tucume, Huaca Rajada Sipan and Chotuna-Chornancap are must-see places while in Lambayeque.

(END) MAO/HMC/RMB

Published: 11/19/2016