Archaeological sites in Callao

Ancient Archaeological Sites

This collection features significant pre-Columbian structures located within the Callao and Lima metropolitan area, primarily representing the Lima and Itchma cultures. The sites range from the Late Preceramic masonry of El Paraíso, dating back to 2000 BC, to the massive adobe platforms of the Maranga complex. These sites showcase distinct architectural techniques, including the 'adobito' style of Huaca San Marcos and the defensive tapia walls of Oquendo, providing a record of the administrative and religious evolution of the Rímac and Chillón valleys.

Ancient Archaeological Sites — Map

Eniol / CC BY-SA 3.0

A

Huaca San Marcos

Large adobe pyramid located within the National University of San Marcos. Built by the Lima culture between 200 and 700 AD, it served as a major administrative and religious center in the Rímac valley.

B

Complejo arqueológico El Paraíso

A Late Preceramic site dating to approximately 2000 BC. This stone-built complex near the Chillón River is one of the oldest examples of monumental architecture in the Americas.

C

Complejo Arqueológico Murallas de Oquendo

Extensive defensive and administrative mud walls dating to the Late Intermediate Period. These structures illustrate the territorial organization of the Itchma and Inca cultures in the region.

D

Huaca Capilla - Márquez II

Archaeological remains of an adobe structure associated with the Itchma culture, situated near the mouth of the Chillón River.

E

Huaca Márquez

A truncated pyramid and ceremonial center located in the lower Chillón valley. It features architectural elements characteristic of the Late Intermediate Period Itchma settlements.

F

Huaca Cerro Culebras

A Lima culture ceremonial site known for its polychrome murals depicting interlocking snakes. It sits on the southern bank of the Chillón River.

G

Huaca Pampa de los perros

A Preceramic ceremonial mound located near the El Paraíso complex, representing some of the earliest sedentary architectural efforts in the Chillón valley.

H

Huaca Potosi

Adobe platform belonging to the Maranga Archaeological Complex. It served as an administrative and ritual site during the Lima and Itchma occupations.

I

Huaca San Miguel

A ceremonial structure within the Maranga complex, showcasing various construction phases from the Lima culture through to the Inca period.

J

Sector 9

An archaeological area within the Maranga complex, featuring remnants of administrative buildings and storage facilities from the Late Intermediate Period.

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