Chan Chan, Capitol of Kingdom Chimu

Near Trujillo lies the UNESCO archaeological site of Chan Chan.

It was at this site that my favorite Panasonic camera gave it's last few frames.

Here they are--

This is the landscape of the archaeological areas.

From a distance, one is unsure why this site is so important.

The entrance

Designs abound everywhere inside the complex.

One is awed by it's immensity.

Inner courtyard.

Last photo from my older camera.

Click here to see images of Chan Chan.

When we arrived at Callao, one of the first things on my agenda was to locate a store where I could purchase a suitable camera. I made my way to the Hiraoka electronics store in San Miguel after I arrived in Callao. I was very impressed with the professionalism of everyone I met at this store. After I was greeted at the entrance by the security personnel, I made my way to the camera section. There were several knowledgeable camera experts behind the counter willing to help. When I mentioned I preferred a Panasonic upgrade, they called their Panasonic expert who explained all of the aspects of the newer camera to me (in Spanish, of course). When I was satisfied that was the camera I needed to record the rest of Peru, Chile, and Argentina, I made my way to the purchasing booth, and the transaction there was handled very professionally as well. The taxi driver and I made our way to the area where the camera was delivered to me in a very secure manner (and it was obvious that I was the only person to access this camera, due to all the security tape around the box). I took the new camera back to the rep who made sure that I could operate it properly. Then the driver and I left, with the security people wishing me well after inspecting my purchase. I was extremely impressed with this electronics store! (I gave the glassware they gave me as a gift to the taxi driver, because I really didn't need the extra weight in my baggage.)

Peru--the Archaeologist's Treasure Chest

When tourists plan to visit Peru, generally the first thing that comes to mind is the Andean high altitude Inca archaeological site of Machu Picchu, Cuzco region, Urubamba Province (mid 1400's). I am a mountain person, and the thought of this site located in a beautiful Andean mountain area, reached by rail from a location near Cuzco (even higher altitude 3,400 m (11,200 ft) using either standard Peruvian rail or the luxury Hiram Bingham cars does sound very captivating. The ship's Machu Picchu tour sent some passengers to Cuzco by air where they stayed 2 nights and were able to take the train to the archaeological site and rejoin us after we sailed to Callao. Hiram Bingham was instrumental in introducing this region to the world. Senator/explorer Hiram Bingham III was from Connecticut, and we are very proud of him. The Bingham extended family still lives nearby. 

I knew there were other archaeological sites in Peru, but I didn't realize the scope of the archaeological treasures, especially in the western arid side of the Andes mountains. Throughout Peru, there are said to be thousands of sites, some dating back to 12,000 BC and many are still waiting to be studied. As we traveled along, the guide pointed out raised areas in the desert terrain, indicating that there were far more sites underneath to be explored. Click here for a very basic list of Peruvian archaeological sites.

We were privileged to visit EL BRUJO which is located just a few miles from Trujillo. My favorite camera began showing signs of imminent demise, but I was able to save these few photos. I recommend clicking on "El Brujo" above for more historical information and additional photos. The video  is excellent as well.

Many of the raised areas in the flat desert indicate a possible archaeological site.

Carved murals depicting history of the area.

View of Visitor's Center and Museum.

There is so much more to be discovered.

Museum Cao. To learn more, click on the El Brujo link, since none of my photos came out.

Additional archaeological sites near Trujillo which are open for viewing:
Click here.