These archaeological phenomena, built in A.D. 500, once served as the center for of the Mochica culture's religious and urban center of life. These temples remain a key tourist attraction they remarkably display about a third of their original structure. Visitors are drawn because excavations are ongoing, so new murals and structures are still being uncovered.

Huaca de la Sol (Temple of the Sun)
Rumored to have been built in just three days, this temple's mud walls portray sculpted patterns of geometric patterns and fierce-looking figures, possibly reflecting the warrior characteristics of the Moche. Standing over 1100 feet tall and 500 feet wide, it is said to be the largest temple in the country. Pottery found in the area depicts realistic forms of animals and people engaged in everyday life and spiritual ceremonies. We learn most about this civilization through the artwork found in the temple. Much of the temple remains unexcavated as the exposed parts are quite fragile due to weather damage, and erosion from footsteps. Visitors are therefore warned against traveling to the top of the pyramid, yet many still traverse the steep trails. Yet the view afforded at the Huaca de la Luna is much more accessible and provides a more expansive view that visitors are welcomed to enjoy.

Huaca de la Luna (Temple of the Moon)
As the smaller of the two temples, the Temple of the Moon has been excavated more extensively and has lasted well through much weather erosion. Unlike the Temple of the Sun, this temple was built over many hundreds of years and displays artistic mythological scenes within the 5 layers of the structure. It is believed that with each new ruler of the area, the Temple was covered with a new layer during their reign. The temple of the Moon provides a much easier pathway to the top to catch site of the magnificent views of the Temple of the Sun and the surrounding valley and river bank.

Visitors can travel to Huaca de la sol and Huaca de la Luna in many ways from Trujillo. The Huacas are located about 6 miles south of Trujillo, roughly 15 minutes by car. Trujillo has taxicabs that are available for hire and travel to the Huacas is around 4 dollars. Visitors can also take a variety of bus services. Bus routes and prices vary, but most are less expensive than a cab but may take a bit longer. The easiest way to travel to the Huacas, as well as other destinations near the city, may be to arrange a tour with a travel agency in the area. Most transportation and a tour of the site can be arranged throught the same agency.

Trujillo Overview

  Attractions
  Nearby Attractions
    Sun & Moon Temples
    El Brujo
    Huanchaco

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