Pre-columbian Lima

Most people think of the Incas as the predominant ancient civilization in Peru. However, the Incan Empire flourished only about a century before the Spanish arrived and there were many civilizations that predated it. These include the Lima, Wari, Nazca, Chavin and Moche civilizations.

There are several expansive pre-columbian archeological sites in Lima. The most centrally located, La Huaca Pucllana, is surrounded by apartment blocks and is only a short distance from Miraflores.

The great pyramid was built of adobe by the Lima people between 500 – 700 A.D. It was initially used as a ceremonial and administrative center, then later as a burial site by the Wari, and as a village by the Ychsma. The very dry desert climate allowed the structures to survive, but they were neglected for many years and the site was even used for motor cross until about forty years ago when it was excavated and preserved as a historic monument.

A wonderful archeological museum in Lima, the Museo Larco, showcases 5000 years of Peru’s Pre-Colombian history.

Museo Larco

The gold and silver galleries display a stunning collection of jewelry, masks and vases.

There is also an impressive collection of ceramics (including the world’s largest collection of erotic ceramics!)