PUCP Archaeology Students Visit the El Brujo Archaeological Complex

Eighteen students from the Archaeology program at the Pontifical Catholic University of Peru (PUCP) made an enriching academic visit today to the El Brujo Archaeological Complex, one of the most important sites on the north coast of our country.

The delegation, led by Dr. Antonio Perez-Balarezo, a professor in the program, had the opportunity to tour the emblematic huacas that make up the complex, guided by the Director of Research, José Ismael Alva Ch.

The tour began at Huaca Prieta, a fundamental site in the history of Peruvian archaeology due to its evidence of more than 14,000 years of human occupation. During the visit, the future archaeologists were able to get an up-close look at the information generated in recent years, which demonstrates the long processes of resource management, technological developments, and the gradual transformation of the environment in the region.

Subsequently, the group of students headed to Huaca Cao Viejo, the impressive Mochica ceremonial building and the discovery site of the Lady of Cao. At this point, the interaction focused on the architecture, mural iconography, and elite funerary contexts.

Throughout the day, the most recent research results obtained at El Brujo were discussed, as well as ongoing research agendas, sparking reflection on the challenges and perspectives of fieldwork and archaeological research at the site and in the valley.

This visit plays a key role in the training of archaeology professionals by connecting research questions, strategies, and the knowledge generated over 35 years of archaeological studies at El Brujo.