Ica

The Sentry or “Huaca” of the Sun

The Sentry of the Sun is an extensive collection of mud pyramids connected with the nearby archaeological complex of Tambo de More, the capital of the Chincha kingdom (1200-1450 AD) that was later occupied by the Incas. In the upper part of the main mound the remains of a high relief stone frieze can be found. The complex is known as the Temple of Chinchaycamac and is often likened to Pachacamac, the ancient adobe city on the southern outskirts of Lima.

Archaeological Remains of Tambo Colorado

An administrative, urban and military center that dates from the Inca era (Late Horizon 1440-1532), Tambo Colorado takes its name from the union of the quechua word “tampu,” which means resting place, and the Spanish term “colorado,” from the presence of red, white and yellow paint used to decorate its adobe walls. The site covers and area of 12000m2. Of its 6 sectors, sector 2 merits special attention. It’s known as the Fort, and is the best preserved of the ruins.

Lost City of the Huayuri

Huayuri is surrounded by high stone ridges, protecting an archaeological complex that corresponds with the Late Intermediate period (1200-1400 AD), the era just before the dominion of the Inca. The city’s entrance is on the west, formed by a gap in the ravine. Built by the Poroma ethnic group during the reign of Ica Chincha (1100-1479 AD) at its peak it was home to 5000 people.

Nazca Lines and Geoglyphs

These detailed drawings and lines in geometric patterns and animal shapes cover an area 50 kilometers long and 15 kilometers wide. They are on such a scale that they can only be fully appreciated from the sky. The Nazca Lines have two marked characteristics: the grand size of many of their designs and the shallowness of the outlines dug to create them, between 15 and 30 centimeters. More than 30 geoglyphs in the form of marine and terrestrial animals have been found to date, along with geometric and human figures.

Cahuachi Ceremonial Center

Cahuachi is an archaeological complex that belongs to the Nazca culture (Early Intermediate period 200 BC-700 AD). It’s composed of truncated adobe pyramids, many of which were abandoned between the 5th and 6th centuries AD. The site also contains structures that include an open patio on one side, and a high terrace with roofed enclosures. At the top of the main temples, including the Great Temple, evidence has been found of large roofed enclosures whose ceilings were supported by dozens of columns.

Necropolis of Chauchilla

This extensive necropolis dates from the year 1000 AD, and anthropological and archaeological remains have been found inside from the Middle Horizon period associated with the Poroma and Inca cultures. Dozens of open tombs still contain their human remains. In some cases, these tombs are collected in groups to form a nucleus, or family mausoleum. One area shows evidence of tall and rectangular structures that could have been more elaborate forms of these nuclei. The necropolis is one of the largest cemeteries discovered in the Nazca Valley.

Los Paredones – Inca Administrative Center

A center of administrative control between the coast and the highlands built with signature Inca planning and architectural techniques, during the imperial expansion imposed by the Inca ruler Pachacutec. Built in the rocky folds of the peak “The Heights of Nazca,” the city presents an East-West orientation, and faces the North. The complex contains seven sectors, the best preserved and most important being sectors 4, 5 and 7, each with a path distinguishing areas for visitors from those set aside for conservation.

Cantalloc Aqueduct

These aqueducts are attributed to the Nazca culture (Early Intermediate 200 BC – 700 AD). Of the 46 aqueducts that have been discovered 32 still work and local farmers rely on them for their water supply. Made from stone they were designed to extract underground water. Special features called “puquios” are ventilation wells that drop into the subsoil in a spiral. They ensure the collection of high purity water.

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