Huaca Arco Iris

Location:
Avenida Nicolás de Piérola / via Chocope, 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) from Trujillo
Trujillo, Peru

Ruin Types:
Ruins

By Lorraine Caputo

Huaca Arco Iris garnered several names throughout modern names, as archaeologists and guides try to decide exactly what its feature decorations mean. The wave-crested, multi-banded arcs that end with heads were first interpreted to be dragons, thus its former name, Huaca Dragón.

Now it is believed they are rainbows and used in accordance with ceremonies dedicated to the assurance of precipitation. In many ancient cultures, the rainbow was associated with rain and, therefore, fertility.

Beneath the arches are two strange beings, a cross perhaps between a dolphin and crocodile, who seem to be having a jolly time. Side niches seen from the pyramid’s platform held human bones (including those of children), who presumably were sacrifices. Other mysterious double-headed creatures appear on the Huaca’s sides, then along the top edge are what seem to be monkeys dancing with a harpoon or flared lance.

This adobe temple was begun by the Chimú and finished during the Tihuanaco-Wari reign (10th-11th century AD). It is estimated to be 1,100 years old.

Getting There
Tours go to all four sites on the ticket, though some outfits omit Huaca Esmeraldas, on account of the danger ($7 average). Taxi to Chan Chan, Huaca Esmeraldas and Huaca Arco Iris $1.70-7 per person (depending on size of group and ability to negotiate), with wait.

Travel Tips: The site's museum is presently under renovation.

Price Description: Included in Chan Chan ticket.

Relative price: Budget

Open Hours from:Daily 9 a.m.

Open Hours to:Daily 4:30 p.m.

Days Closed:Closed Christmas Day and New Years Day.

Travel Skills: None

You Need to Bring: Bring along water and snacks, camera. Leave valuables at your hotel.

The many other archaeological sites around Trujillo, plus the city’s museums.

Currencies accepted
Nuevo Sol