Sacred City of Caral-Supe
Location: Central Coast Peru
Year of Inscription: 2009
Criteria: (ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Sacred City of Caral-Supe is an archaeological site that represents the oldest known civilization in the Americas, dating back to around 2600 BCE. It is a testament to the impressive architectural and urban planning achievements of the Caral people.
Prominent Features: The site showcases several remarkable features, including monumental stone structures, sunken circular plazas, pyramids, residential areas, and an intricate network of ceremonial and residential structures spread across an area of about 65 hectares. Here are some prominent features of the site:
History: Caral-Supe flourished as a complex society that thrived through trade, agriculture, and cultural exchange. It served as a significant cultural, political, and economic center, playing a crucial role in the development of Andean civilization.
Family-Friendly Activities: Visitors to the Sacred City of Caral-Supe can engage in various family-friendly activities such as guided tours, exploring the archaeological ruins, visiting the on-site museum to learn about the history and culture of the Caral people, and enjoying picnics in designated areas.
Fun Fact: Caral-Supe is considered one of the oldest cities in the Americas, predating even the Inca civilization and other famous ancient sites like Machu Picchu. Its age and complexity contribute to its significance as an archaeological marvel.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for foreign visitors is 11 USD for adults and 6 USD for children, students, and seniors. Peruvian citizens and residents enjoy a reduced fee of 1 USD.
How to Reach it: From Lima, visitors can reach the Sacred City of Caral-Supe by road. The site is located approximately 200 kilometers north of Lima, and the journey takes around 3-4 hours by car or bus. It's advisable to hire a guide or join a guided tour to ensure a smooth and informative visit.
Where to Stay: Accommodation options near the Sacred City of Caral-Supe are limited since it is primarily a day trip destination from Lima. Most visitors choose to stay in Lima and plan a day trip to Caral-Supe. Lima offers a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences. But it is a long day trip.
The town of Barranca is the closest urban area. Barranca is located approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Caral-Supe and offers a few hotels and guesthouses where you can stay overnight.
In Barranca, you can find accommodations ranging from budget-friendly options to mid-range hotels.
Next Stop: Historic Centre of Lima 174km down the coast
Year of Inscription: 2009
Criteria: (ii)to exhibit an important interchange of human values, over a span of time or within a cultural area of the world, on developments in architecture or technology, monumental arts, town-planning or landscape design;
(iii)to bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(iv)to be an outstanding example of a type of building, architectural or technological ensemble or landscape which illustrates (a) significant stage(s) in human history;
Overview: The Sacred City of Caral-Supe is an archaeological site that represents the oldest known civilization in the Americas, dating back to around 2600 BCE. It is a testament to the impressive architectural and urban planning achievements of the Caral people.
Prominent Features: The site showcases several remarkable features, including monumental stone structures, sunken circular plazas, pyramids, residential areas, and an intricate network of ceremonial and residential structures spread across an area of about 65 hectares. Here are some prominent features of the site:
- Pyramid Complex: The site showcases several pyramids, including the Great Pyramid of Caral, which is the largest and most prominent structure. These pyramids served as ceremonial and administrative centers.
- Circular Plazas: Caral-Supe features circular plazas, such as the Huanca del Valle, where important ceremonies and gatherings took place. These plazas highlight the architectural and urban planning skills of the ancient Caral civilization.
- Residential Areas: The site reveals the remains of residential areas where the ancient inhabitants lived. These areas provide insights into the daily life, social organization, and living conditions of the Caral people.
- Sunken Circular Courts: Caral-Supe includes sunken circular courts, which are unique features in the architectural design of the site. These courts were likely used for ceremonial and ritual purposes.
- Carved Monoliths: Caral-Supe is adorned with large carved monoliths known as stelae. These monoliths depict various anthropomorphic and zoomorphic figures, providing glimpses into the artistic and symbolic expressions of the Caral civilization.
- Pyramidal Platforms: The site features numerous pyramidal platforms, which served as ceremonial and ritual spaces. These platforms highlight the architectural expertise and religious significance of the Caral culture.
History: Caral-Supe flourished as a complex society that thrived through trade, agriculture, and cultural exchange. It served as a significant cultural, political, and economic center, playing a crucial role in the development of Andean civilization.
Family-Friendly Activities: Visitors to the Sacred City of Caral-Supe can engage in various family-friendly activities such as guided tours, exploring the archaeological ruins, visiting the on-site museum to learn about the history and culture of the Caral people, and enjoying picnics in designated areas.
Fun Fact: Caral-Supe is considered one of the oldest cities in the Americas, predating even the Inca civilization and other famous ancient sites like Machu Picchu. Its age and complexity contribute to its significance as an archaeological marvel.
Entry Fees: The entry fee for foreign visitors is 11 USD for adults and 6 USD for children, students, and seniors. Peruvian citizens and residents enjoy a reduced fee of 1 USD.
How to Reach it: From Lima, visitors can reach the Sacred City of Caral-Supe by road. The site is located approximately 200 kilometers north of Lima, and the journey takes around 3-4 hours by car or bus. It's advisable to hire a guide or join a guided tour to ensure a smooth and informative visit.
Where to Stay: Accommodation options near the Sacred City of Caral-Supe are limited since it is primarily a day trip destination from Lima. Most visitors choose to stay in Lima and plan a day trip to Caral-Supe. Lima offers a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and accommodations to suit various budgets and preferences. But it is a long day trip.
The town of Barranca is the closest urban area. Barranca is located approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Caral-Supe and offers a few hotels and guesthouses where you can stay overnight.
In Barranca, you can find accommodations ranging from budget-friendly options to mid-range hotels.
Next Stop: Historic Centre of Lima 174km down the coast