The Mochicas pyramids

Returning back to Trujillo, the regional capital on the north coast, the Moche River Valley opens up along with its eponymous culture. Contemporaries of the Paracas, the Mochicas passed down their prized works of art in ceramic gold and silver during the pre-Inca period. Several miles south of the town stand the 'huacas' (ceremonial centres) of the Sun and of the Moon, over 1,500ft apart. The first rises to a height of 140 metres while the second is composed of several superimposed temples. Here we can observe superb multi-coloured wall paintings with well-defined lines in which the face of the ferocious god Ai-Apec appears with his prominent fangs. Similar frescos were also found in the citadel of Chan Chan, the capital of the Chimu kingdom, which succeeded the Moche era.

Photo Report

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