Visiting The Huaca Pucllana Ruins in Lima (2023 Update)

Huaca Pucllana History

This massive pyramid originally functioned as an important ceremonial and administrative center for the Lima culture in Peru. Surrounding the structure there is a plaza with a large wall running north and south that divides it into separate sections. The western side of the Huaca Pucllana complex is an area that ceremonies were performed in which they would make sacrifices and offerings to Pachamama. This is the side that contains the 22-meter-high pyramid. 

Huaca Pucllana was built around the year 400 to 500 AD by the Lima culture, which ruled the Peruvian central coast for around 200 AD and 700 AD and developed technology such as irrigation which allowed them to thrive in the harsh desert climate. 

Eventually, the Lima culture was invaded by the Wari culture sometime around 700 CE. With their arrival, the complex was mostly abandoned with the exception of a burial site for the noble. The first intact tomb from the time period was found in 2008 and had the remains of three people: two adults wearing masks, and a child who was sacrificed.

The Wari civilization then collapsed in 1000 AD, followed by the settlement of the Ychmas, an Aymara-speaking people centered around the city of Pachacamac. Huaca Pucllana then became used as primarily as a site for worship and sacrifice.  

Finally, Ychmas were absorbed into the Inca Empire. By the time Inca arrived in Lima, the site was already considered a “ñaupallaqta” (sacred ancient town).

Huaca Pucllana Archaeological Site

 

Eastern Ruins

On the eastern side of the complex is an administrative section with space that was likely used for public meetings, storage, and other production-focused focused activities. On this side, there were also small clay huts located inside the complex. This side also has the  “Señor de Los Unkus” (The Lord of the Unkus) remains which are intact inside one of the tombs. 

As this was the administrative side, this is the side that drove the planning for expansion of the empire. This side was also used for the storage of agricultural products. Additionally, high ranking members of the community used the space to conduct meetings into the planning of the expansion of the empire.  

The structure also allowed clergymen a good visual of the surrounding natural resources. Having control and quick access to both fresh and saltwater was vital to helping the community thrive

Western Ruins

The western side of the compound is the spiritually significant part of Huaca Pucllana. This side of the ruins was built as a structure to honor the god, Pachamama. In Quechua, Pachamama is the term that is used to describe Mother Earth.

The 72 foot or 22-meter Peruvian temple was likely reserved for religious rites and ceremonies held by the community’s high priests. The size of the pyramid was made in order to reach the divine gods. Additionally, this part of the pyramid was used for large feasts and rituals that would involve banquets. 

Finally, there is speculation as to the purpose of the pre-Incan Huaca during times of uncertainty. In years of drought,  offerings were a common way to address issues of lower food supply throughout the population. It is very likely that human sacrifice was used to appease the Gods in order that they would return times of plentitude to the region.

Huaca Pucllana Hours and Entrance Fees

The Huaca Pucllana ruins are open to visitors Wednesday thru Monday from 9 AM to 5 PM. The ruins are closed every week on Tuesdays. There is also a nighttime entrance from Wednesday through Monday from 7 PM to 10 PM. The entrance fee is S/15.00 which comes to a little under $5 USD. Any children ages under 12 or senior citizens can obtain entrance for half price every day. 

Huaca Pucllana entrance is pretty cheap. It includes a guided tour. You are able to explore the tiered pyramid and large walled rooms built with adobe brick that is centuries old. However, the bricks used for the construction have slowly started to decay. Restoration is currently ongoing in order to maintain the ruins structure and help replace the damage that has occurred throughout the years. 

One of the things that your tour guide will draw attention to is the tombs that have been excavated on site. The excavation of Huaca Pucllana continues today by archeologists. There continue to be many human remains as well as offerings constantly found at the site and inside the tombs. 

If you stand on the uppermost section of the pyramid you will get an excellent view of the ruins.

What Restaurants are near Huaca Pucllana?

Within the ruins of Huaca Pucllana, there is a restaurant called Huaca Pucllana Restaurante. The restaurant sits near the illuminated pyramid creating a serene view at night. 

Promotor Arturo Rubio with chefs, Marilú Madueño and Andrea Massaro have created a decadent world-class dining experience. Their culinary specialty consist of utilizing local ingredients to make exquisite traditional Peruvian cuisine. 

At the restaurant, you will find dishes like Lomo Saltado which is marinated sirloin with onions, tomatoes, rice, and french fries, or Antichuco which is a marinated beef heart with fried corn and chips. 

The Huaca Pucllana Restaurante is open daily from 12 pm and 4 pm, and then from 7 pm until midnight. It is definitely a must-visit you if are in the Miraflores Peru area.