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Ica Region

Tambo Colorado

Inca adobe complex with colorful walls

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

Tambo Colorado is a remarkably well-preserved Inca adobe complex located near the coast of Peru, within the Pisco River Valley. This site, dating back to the late 15th century CE, reflects the architectural fusion of Chincha and Inca styles, highlighted by its vibrant wall paintings in red, black, white, and yellow ochre. The complex is organized around a large trapezoidal plaza, surrounded by distinct structures such as the Northern Palace, Southern Palaces, and a ceremonial Ushnu platform. These structures served administrative and control functions during the height of the Inca Empire, facilitating the movement between the coast and highlands. The site's preservation owes much to the dry environmental conditions of the region, allowing us to glimpse into the architectural and cultural sophistication of the Inca civilization. A small museum on-site further enriches the understanding of its historical significance.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Tambo Colorado

FileCyark_Tambo_Colorado_Rm42_3.jpg
FileTamboColorado-colours.PNG
FileTamboColorado-stretched.PNG

Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Public and Civic Structures

Plazas

Religious and Ritual Structures

Ceremonial Platforms

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Palaces

Historical Timeline

Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history

Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Ica Region
Source
Wikipedia