There are three pre-Inca cultures that developed in this area and that their legacies can be found to this day: Mochica, Lambayeque, and Chimú.

In order to counter the dry forests’ difficult conditions, these three cultures became skilled architects and hydraulic engineers. In addition, their metallurgical works and ceramic craftmanship, turned them into important figures of pre-Inca cultures.

The Mochicas or Moches, a culture that developed between the II and IV centuries in what is now known as Trujillo, were great architects and built important works of hydraulic engineering. Furthermore, as the Lord of Sipán shows, they were the best metallurgists of their times by far, gilding copper much earlier than in Europe and developing a series of techniques that were used in weapons, garments and ornaments. But today they are known for their fine and elaborate ceramic work. Their huaco portraits and erotic pieces are recognized all over the world.

The Lambayeque culture developed in the same area between the VIII and XIV centuries.

They took some of the Moches’ architectural and irrigational system advances as a starting point and improved upon them. Their mixtures of metals and delicate finishes that can be seen in the tumis are also examples of their fine craftmanship. Although they didn’t expand their power as much as the Moches, they were their great artistic disciples, especially in their jewelry work.

Finally, we have the Chimú culture. Of the three cultures, their urbanism stands out thanks to breathtaking constructions, such as Chan Chan and the Paramonga fortress. They also made important strides in metallurgy, by mixing techniques and metals in their pieces, and their textiles.

This important cultural heritage can be discovered/seen up close in the many museums and archaeological sites that can be found throughout Lambayeque. The Archaeological Complex Huaca Rajada–where the Señor de Sipán can be found– and Tucume, are excellent sites to learn more about the Mochica and Chimú cultures. There is also the Ventarrón Mountain, that has murals that are over 7 thousand years old. And, for those looking for a combination of nature and history, there is the Bosque de Pomac Historical Sanctuary, a national patrimony, and the Corbacho Mountain.