Tambo Colorado
Peru

Tambo Colorado

Inca adobe complex with colorful walls

Location

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Historical Context

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.

Paleolithic
Mesolithic
Neolithic
Chalcolithic
Bronze Age
Iron Age
Classical Period
Post-Classical Period
Early Modern Period
Industrial Period
Contemporary Period
Visual Archive

Gallery

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Temporal Epochs

Historical Timeline

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Construction of Tambo Colorado

Late 15th century CE

Classification

Archaeological Features

Unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

category

Public and Civic Structures

Plazas
category

Religious and Ritual Structures

Ceremonial Platforms
category

Domestic and Habitation Structures

Palaces
Knowledge Base

Frequently Asked Questions

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Plan Your Visit

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Reference

Details

Country

Peru

Coordinates

-13.71° N, -75.83° E