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Chan Chan, 5 km (3 mi) west of Trujillo, was the largest pre-Columbian city in South America, as the capital of the Chimu kingdom around 1300 AD. Some archaeologists believe it was the largest adobe city ever. There were also nine sub-cities each ruled by a different ruler. Around 100,000 residents inhabited 10,000 buildings in the main city. The city was used to store large quantities of gold, silver and ceramics, which, within two decades of the Spanish arrival, were completely looted.
Sadly, not much remains of the original city due to heavy downpours and tomb robbers, or huaqueros. The best-preserved section of the city today is the Tschudi Complex. The complex still features friezes and courtyards as well as some original walls; the other walls have been restored.
It is an experience that will shake you to core of your being.
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