Chan Chan Ruins

Chan Chan Ruins

Introduction

Chan Chan is located in the La Libertad Region of northwestern Peru. In the Chimú language, Chan Chan means "Sun, Sun." It was the center of the ancient Chimú culture in the Americas. Between 1200 and 1400, it served as the capital of the indigenous Chimú Kingdom before being conquered by the Inca Empire. After the arrival of Spanish colonizers, a new city was established 5,000 meters away from Chan Chan and named “Trujillo,” leading to the gradual abandonment of Chan Chan. The ancient city of Chan Chan, situated in a coastal desert area, covers an area of about 20 square kilometers and had a population of up to 100,000 at its peak. It is the largest surviving earthen city ruins in the world.

Ten rectangular compounds have been discovered within the city, each enclosed by a wall separating it from neighboring compounds. Each compound contains pyramid-shaped temples, burial grounds, gardens, and reservoirs. All buildings in the city were constructed from large adobe bricks made of clay, gravel, and shells. These bricks were laid in a crisscross pattern to enhance structural stability. The walls of the buildings were coated with mud and adorned with intricate and elaborate relief carvings.

Lima, Peru