Huaca Esmeraldas

Location:
3 kilometers (1.8 miles) from Trujillo, off Avenida Mansiche, in El Cortijo coop.
Trujillo, Peru

Ruin Types:
Ruins

By Lorraine Caputo

Huaca Esmeraldas formed part of the great Chan Chan citadel complex. Like Chan Chan, it was constructed by the Chimú. The outer walls of this temple have rhomboids framed with intricate designs, which have become undecipherable with age. Inside the precinct, the friezes are of fishing nets, sea otters, fish and seabirds—all symbols important in the Chimú people's devotion to the sea and moon. In all, the buildings are in poor condition. The church San Salvador de Mansiche, on Avenida Mansiche, is said to have been built of blocks from Huaca Esmeraldas.

Getting There
Tours go to all four sites on the ticket, though some outfits omit Huaca Esmeraldas, due to its neighborhood’s ill reputation ($7 average). Check with the agent to see if it will be included. 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: To go on your own: Take a Huanchaco-bound bus as far as the Maniche church. Then, with extreme care, walk down the street to the right of the church three blocks, then one block to your left. The Huaca will be on your right. Do not stray into any other part of the neighbourhood.

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, and the city’s museums.

Currencies accepted
Nuevo Sol