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Archaeological site · Huancayo, Junín
Wari Willka Sanctuary
Ancient sanctuary about 6 km south of Huancayo, in the district of Huancán, considered by the wankas the place of origin of their people. It has remains of pre-Hispanic constructions and a site museum.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Wari Willka Sanctuary
Wari Willka is an archaeological site in the Huari annex, district of Huancán, about 6 km south of downtown Huancayo. It emerged under the influence of the Wari state during the period known as the Middle Horizon, and its main constructions are dated roughly between 800 and 1200 AD.
After the Wari decline, the site became one of the centers of the wankas, the people who dominated the Mantaro valley. Wanka tradition describes it as a pacarina, the sacred place from which the first couple of their people would have emerged, and the sanctuary functioned as an oracle.
With the Inca conquest, a temple dedicated to the Sun was built there without erasing the older sanctuary. Spanish chroniclers described the site in the 16th century, and modern studies began in 1931.
Today you can visit walls and platforms and a site museum with ceramics and objects found in the excavations.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About one hour for the site and the museum.
Best time
In the morning, with softer light and less heat. The site and museum hours can change; confirm before you go.
How to get there
By taxi or local bus, 15 to 20 minutes from downtown Huancayo, along the road that goes south through the valley.
Tip
Ask a museum guide to explain the wanka pacarina tradition: it helps to understand why the site is so important to the valley’s identity.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Wari Willka Sanctuary
Where is Wari Willka located?
In the Huari annex, Huancán district, about 6 km south of downtown Huancayo.
What is Wari Willka?
An ancient sanctuary that emerged under Wari influence and was later used by the Wankas, who considered it the place of origin of their people. The Incas built a temple to the Sun there.
Does Wari Willka have a museum?
Yes, a site museum with ceramics and objects found in the excavations.