Chiclayo Information and Attractions

Mar 20
07:36

2012

Matthew Barker

Matthew Barker

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Chiclayo is the fourth largest city in Peru. It is a must see destination for archaeology lovers.

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The city of Chiclayo is located on the northern coast 478 miles (770 km) from Lima. It is the 4th largest city in Peru and has just over 700,000 residents and a steadily growing population. It features a year round warm and dry desert climate and is 8 miles (13 km) from the beach. Chiclayo is notable for its long pre-Columbian history and visitors today use the city as a base for exploring its many archaeological attractions.

The Moche civilization existed in this area from 100 A.D. to 800 A.D. They created an advanced canal system with which they were able to irrigate the dry landscape. As a result,Chiclayo Information and Attractions Articles the Moche became an important agricultural center. The culture also distinguished itself for its copper tools and expressive ceramics. The tomb of the Lord of Sipan tomb dates from this era and is a main draw for travelers interested in archaeology.

Following the arrival of the Spanish, a church and Franciscan convent were founded but the city remained largely indigenous well into the Republican era of Peru’s history. Although Chiclayo has remained a small town, its location has made it a perpetual hub for transportation by rail and car between Lima and cities of north. Chiclayo is also famous for its regional cuisine; among its most outstanding plates are arroz con pato (duck with rice), cabrito a la chiclayana con loche (goat with squash), and cebiche.

What to see:

Within the city, the Parque Principal is in the center of Chiclayo. It is surrounded by a commercial district, as well as the Cathedral, the municipal palace, and other historic buildings. The Cathedral was designed by the French engineer Gustave Eiffel.

Lambayeque is about 20 minutes by bus from Chiclayo and hosts the area’s most interesting archaeological sites. About 18 miles (30 km) from town is the excavation site for the Lord of Sipan Tomb, the most intact archaeological discovery in Peru. There were previously several dozen tombs constructed of adobe, but they have almost all been looted in the period since Spanish colonization. In town, the Sipan Museum exhibits a mock-up of the tomb. Meanwhile, the Bruning Museum houses artifacts from the various civilizations that have inhabited area.

Tucume is another fascinating attraction. Twenty six pyramids dot this valley; it is believed that they were left behind by the Lambayeque culture (which followed the Moche) dating from 700 A.D. to 1375 A.D. The nearby museum has a plethora of artifacts from the Moche, Lambayeque, Chimu, and Inca cultures.

How to get there:

Chiclayo is accessible by bus; the city is 3 hours from Trujillo and 11 hours from Lima. The airlines LAN, Star Peru, and Taca all serve Chiclayo and flights arrive daily from Lima, Tumbes, and Iquitos.

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