Huaca Rajada Archaeological Site

Address: Huaca Rajada (Sipán area), Lambayeque Region, Peru

Huaca Rajada is an archaeological mound complex in the Lambayeque region of northern Peru associated with the Moche (Mochica) culture. It became internationally known after major tomb discoveries in the late 20th century.

The principal attraction is the set of elite burials uncovered in 1987, including the richly furnished burial widely referred to as the Tomb of the Lord of Sipán. Excavations revealed metalwork, textiles and other grave goods that are among the finest-known Moche assemblages, drawing archaeologists and visitors interested in pre-Columbian cultures.

Archaeological work at Huaca Rajada has been led by Peruvian teams and international collaborators since the 1980s, with conservation and museum display following excavation. The site has changed from an unexcavated mound to an active archaeological and heritage site with protective measures.

Huaca Rajada sits inland in the Lambayeque region, near the modern settlement of Sipán and within driving distance of the regional city of Chiclayo.

• Major discovery: Excavations in 1987 revealed multiple high-status Moche burials with extensive grave goods, making the site one of the most important Moche discoveries of the 20th century.
• Where to see the finds: Many of the best-preserved artifacts from the excavations are conserved and displayed in regional museums in Lambayeque and Chiclayo, where visitors can see the original finds.

What to See#

• Huaca mounds: A large earthen mound complex that covers multiple platforms and excavation trenches where elite Moche burials were found, including richly furnished tombs. The mounds contain multiple chambers and grave pits uncovered in modern excavations.
• Tomb of the Lord of Sipán: The richly furnished burial recovered in 1987 by archaeologists led by Walter Alva, commonly known as the Tomb of the Lord of Sipán, included metalwork, textiles and other grave goods and is the best-known single burial from the site.

• See the archaeological site at Huaca Rajada together with the Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipán in Lambayeque - the museum displays the finds from the tombs and greatly enhances understanding of the on‑site ruins.
• Base yourself in Chiclayo or Lambayeque for easier access and day tours to Huaca Rajada, and book a guided visit so you get the archaeological context that signage on site often omits.