Temple of the Sun
Ocean views.
Velvet — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Milena Casco 2002 — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Arlette Rodriguez — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Ariana zafra — CC BY-SA 4.0
The largest archaeological site in the Lima area, spreading over some 600 hectares of desert hills looking out to the Pacific, settled from about AD 200 and flourishing for some 1,300 years until the Spanish arrived. It was the seat of a famous oracle that drew pilgrims from all over the coast and mountains. It is named after Pacha Kamaq, «Earth Maker», the creator god of the coastal peoples before the Incas. When the Incas conquered the area they respected the temple's standing and built the huge Temple of the Sun beside it on a hilltop, with wide views over the ocean and islands. Visitors drive or walk among ramped adobe pyramids, the «Painted Temple», which still bears traces of colour, the Temple of the Sun and the Acllahuasi palace with its restored walls. The modern site museum holds models and statues, the best known a carved wooden idol of the god. The sun is strong and the distances between buildings long, so a drive-through or a guide makes it easier. The site is closed on Mondays.
Ocean views.
Traces of colour.
The wooden idol.
Lurín River valley, about 40 km south-east of central Lima
By taxi or an organised tour, about an hour depending on traffic, as the site is 40 km south-east of the city. Half a day is enough.