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Archaeological site · Piura, Piura
Narihualá Archaeological Complex
Large adobe huaca south of Catacaos, the main political and administrative center of the Tallán people, who lived in the Piura valley before the Incas. It has 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 Narihualá Archaeological Complex
Narihualá is in the hamlet of the same name, in the district of Catacaos, a few kilometers from the town center and about 17 km south of Piura. It is considered the most important archaeological site in the Piura region and was declared Cultural Heritage of the Nation in 2003.
The complex was the main settlement of the Tallán nation, a political and administrative center that controlled the valley lands. The Tallán people dominated this warm territory roughly between 700 and 1500 CE. The name is explained as "eye that sights from afar" in the Tallán language.
What you see is a large adobe huaca, with platforms and pyramids covering about six hectares that stand out on the plain. At the top there is a chapel.
At the foot of the huaca, the site museum displays ceramics, metalwork, textiles and remains found in the excavations, including the funerary offering of a Peruvian hairless dog, and a room about chicha de jora and toquilla straw.
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 huaca and the museum.
Best time
In the morning, before the strongest heat. The museum operates on days and hours set by the Ministry of Culture, sometimes requiring prior reservation; confirm before you go.
How to get there
From Catacaos, by mototaxi or taxi in about 10 minutes. From Piura, the trip is typically combined with Catacaos by taxi or organized tour.
Tip
Bring a hat and water: there is almost no shade at the huaca. Visit the Museo Vicús in Piura beforehand to get the context of the valley cultures.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Narihualá Archaeological Complex
What is Narihualá?
An adobe archaeological complex that was the main political and administrative center of the Tallan people, the inhabitants of the Piura valley before the Incas.
Where is Narihualá located?
In the district of Catacaos, a few kilometers from the town center and about 17 km south of Piura.
Does Narihualá have a museum?
Yes, a site museum with ceramics, metalwork, textiles and objects from the excavations. Opening days may change; confirm before you go.