Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Time Periods
Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Location
About
The Huaca del Sol is a monumental adobe pyramid located in the Moche Valley near Trujillo, Peru, built by the Moche civilization between 100 CE and 800 CE. As the largest pre-Columbian adobe structure in the Americas, it initially stood about 50 meters tall. The pyramid served as a center for ritual and ceremonial activities, as well as a royal residence and burial site, evidenced by its complex structure of four main levels. The Moche constructed the Huaca del Sol through an additive process, layering over 130 million adobe bricks, many marked by different communities, reflecting a collaborative construction effort. Its historical significance is marked by its role in Moche culture and the extensive damage it suffered from Spanish looting efforts in the 17th century, as well as ongoing erosion challenges.
Gallery
Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Huaca del Sol



Archaeological Features
Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site
Burial and Funerary Structures
Religious and Ritual Structures
Historical Timeline
Journey through time and discover key events in this site's archaeological history
Plan Your Visit
Details
- Country
- Peru
- Source
- Wikipedia
More Sites in Peru
Cajamarquilla
Large adobe city with diverse structures

Chauchilla Cemetery
Prehispanic cemetery with mummified remains.
Salt Mines of Maras
Pre-Hispanic salt extraction center in Peru.
Pampa Grande
Ancient Moche city with ceremonial structures.

Intikancha (Puno)
Mountain with ancient sun-related enclosure

Wila Wilani (Tacna)
Rock art site with camelid hunting scenes.