Trujillo Essentials

Trujillo showcases the architectural evolution of northern Peru, from the massive adobe complexes of the Moche and Chimu civilizations to its well-preserved Spanish colonial center. This selection features the sprawling mud-brick city of Chan Chan and the mural-adorned Huaca de la Luna. In the city center, colonial mansions and baroque churches surround the historic Plaza de Armas, while the nearby coast at Huanchaco preserves ancient maritime traditions and 19th-century maritime infrastructure.

Chan Chan Archaeological Zone

Chan Chan was the largest city of the pre-Columbian era in South America.

Huaca de la Luna

Huaca de la Luna is a large adobe brick structure built mainly by the Moche people of northern Peru.

Huaca del Sol

The Huaca del Sol is an adobe brick pyramid built by the Moche civilization on the northern coast of what is now Peru.

Plaza de Armas

The city's central square features the Freedom Monument, a large bronze and marble sculpture by Edmund Moeller. It is bordered by the bright yellow cathedral and colonial-era mansions known for their distinctive wrought-iron window grilles.

Muelle de Huanchaco

A historic wooden pier built in 1891. It provides a vantage point to watch fishermen using 'caballitos de totora,' traditional reed boats that have been used along this coastline for millennia.

Basílica Menor de Trujillo

Completed in 1666, this cathedral is distinguished by its bright yellow facade and baroque altarpieces. It houses a museum with a significant collection of colonial-era religious art from the Trujillo school.

Huaca del Dragón

The Huaca del Dragon, also called Huaca del Arco Iris is an archeological site located in the Peruvian city of Trujillo, near Chan Chan.

Huaca Esmeralda

The Huaca La Esmeralda is an archaeological building belonging to the Chimu culture, is located in the Peruvian city of Trujillo.

Museo del Juguete

Founded by artist Gerardo Chávez, this museum displays a private collection of toys dating from pre-Columbian times through the mid-20th century, including antique dolls, tin soldiers, and early mechanical pieces.

Iglesia de La Merced

A 17th-century church designed by architect Francisco de Estupiñán. The interior features a rococo style with a notable carved pulpit and one of the oldest pipe organs in the city.

Plazuela el Recreo

This historic square contains the original Italian marble fountain that formerly stood in the Plaza de Armas. Glass panels on the ground reveal excavated sections of the city's colonial brick water distribution system.