Sipán

Famous for the discovery in 1987 of the “Lord of Sipán” tomb, which retained all the treasures of a nobleman’s burial, hidden from looters and grave robbers. The archaeological complex has been reduced in area by the encroachment of farming in the area over the last few centuries. Even so, the site presents several distinct areas, including monuments, patios, cemeteries, domestic areas and fortifications. The area at the center of the complex is also known as Huaca Rajada — “the split huaca” — due to splits in the superstructure created by alluvial erosion. The central area is a cluster of buildings, including the Royal Mausoleum, a rectangular platform 80 meters long by 1.30 meters high. The site has provided archaeologists with important information about the costumes and clothing worn by the Moche people.