Wednesday, November 16, 2005

Chan Chan (04 November 2005)

The Chimu empire (800AD to 1470AD) built their huge capital at Chan Chan (near Trujillo), covering about 28 sq km it is the largest adobe city in the world. The city consists of nine major subcities (or compounds) all of which have been extensively damaged by the ravages of time. A visit to the most preserved area, "The Tschudi Complex" reveals some remarkable constructions.

Here we are in the Ceremonial Courtyard. Being close to the sea the Chimu based much of thir diet on seafood. Hence the theme of the sea in their designs.

This wall is one of the most famous in Peru, the wall showing waves of fish rippling along the wall above a line of sea birds.

Here we are in the "audience rooms," the design on the walls is representative of fishing nets.

Chan Chan was definitely worth the visit.