History of Trujillo

In ancient times (10,000 B.C.) the valleys of Trujillo and its surroundings were popular for hunting and harpooning fish. The farmers and seafood gatherers in this area learned to build temples and irrigation systems, such as the one at Alto Salaverry.

The Cupisnique culture represents the time of greatest development for Trujillo. During this period, the people of this area made beautiful ceramics, which can be seen in the Huaca de los Reyes and Valle de Moche temples. After the Cupisnique culture, the Moche culture became prominent. Examples of this culture can be found in the Huaca del Sol and Huaca de La Luna. The Moche culture encountered problems following the Wari conquest and after the 11th century a new culture called the Chimu came into play.

Their impressive capital was called “Chan Chan”. Considered as the largest clay city in America before the arrival of the Spaniards, the Chimu Kingdom, became a great empire dominating the land from Tumbes to Supe. It was the largest empire on the coast before the Inca domination. The Inca Pachacutec and his son Tupac Yupanqui invaded the kingdom. The Chimus surrendered, but the invaders who became their allies respected them. The Chimus were skilled goldsmiths and they influenced the art of the Incas. The Inca domination only lasted 100 years, after which the Spaniards conquered them.

Diego de Almagro founded the department capital of Trujillo in 1534. It is located close to the Pre-Columbian city of Chan-Chan. During the Colonial period it became a resting place for nobility and hacienda owners. During the War of Independence, Trujillo took the site of the patriots. In 1820, when the news of the landing of San Martin spread, it proclaimed independence.

During the war with Chile, the last battle took place at Huamachuco. In 1932, under the Presidency of General Luis Sanchez Cerro, a revolutionary uprise took place conducted by civilians from the haciendas and the valleys surrounding Trujillo.

Currently La Libertad is one of the most developed departments in the northern part of the country.