Peru Travel: Trujillo Information and Attractions

Mar 22
07:18

2012

Matthew Barker

Matthew Barker

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The city of Trujillo has played an important part in the history of Peru. Today, it is a base for exploration of archaeological sites.

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Trujillo,Peru Travel: Trujillo Information and Attractions Articles on the northern coast of Peru, is one of the oldest cities founded by the Spanish and named after the hometown of the conquistador Francisco Pizarro. It currently is the third largest city in Peru with a population of over 700,000 and it is an important commercial center that connects the surrounding region. Trujillo is known as the City of Eternal Spring, National Capital of La Marinera (a typical dance), and the birthplace of the Peruvian Paso horse, recognized international for its smooth, easy gait.

In the pre-Columbian era, the area around Trujillo was occupied by groups such as the Moche and the Chimu. These cultures created archaeological sites that are top destinations and draw thousands of travelers every year. The most important are the Temples of the Sun and Moon and the city of Chan Chan, which was the capital of the Chimu culture.

The present-day city of Trujillo still retains the original planning imposed by the Spanish. Throughout the colonial period in Peru, Trujillo served as an important connector between the viceregal capital in Lima, the city of Piura further up the coast, and Panama in the north. Because of its domination by the Spaniards, Trujillo was also an important residence for many owners of haciendas. Many buildings in Trujillo including churches, palaces, and government buildings, still remain from this important period in the history of the city. The main street in the historic center is Avenida España. The central Cathdral, dating from the late 17th century was built is a baroque and rococo style and houses paintings from the Cusco School of art. Other houses, such as the Casa Banante, bear a heavy Spanish influence notable for the abundance of Arab-inspired details.

Today, Trujillo forms part of the Ruta Moche, which connects the archaeological sites in the north of Peru. As mentioned the main draws are the Huacas, or temples, where there is currently a museum, and the city of Chan Chan, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. Other attractions are Huanchaco and Las Delicias, two popular beach resorts. Also drawing domestic and international travelers is the annual Marinera National Contest celebrated in January which draws competitors from around the country.  

How to get there:

The airport in Huanchaco receives daily flights from Lima, Chiclayo, Piura, and Talara and is served by Lan and Star Peru. Trujillo is also well connected regional and nationally to other points in Lima and to the southern cities of Ecuador; bus service is frequent. The port of Salaverry is also a popular stop for cruise ships, particularly in the summer months.

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