Ancient civilizations around Nazca

Cahuachi Ruins

The site of Cahuachi was an important ceremonial centre of the Nazca culture, from AD 1 to 500.

The site of 1.5 km2 contains more than 40 mounds topped with structures made of adobe bricks. It is only possible to visit a few of the partially restored structures.

Chauchilla Necropolis

The necropolis was used from AD 200 over a period of 600 to 700 years.

The site was discovered in 1920, but its protection by the Peruvian government only started in 1997. For this reason, the tombs were extensively robbed by huaqueros (tomb raiders, or grave robbers).

In 1997, most of the tombs were regrouped on the actual site with a careful restoration in order to preserve this heritage.

Paredones Ruins

The site of Paredones is now two steps away from the town of Nazca.

It was an Inca administrative centre around AD 1400.

Cantayoc Aqueduct

Aqueducts have been built by the Nazca culture around AD 1500. Some archeologists think that they may have been built around 540 BC. At that time, there were more than 40 reservoirs as seen on the photos.

The reservoirs, or puquios in Spanish, still partly work to this day. After the rain, the reservoirs can still store water for a long period.

Antonini Museum

This museum has an excellent collection of artefacts from the surrounding area.