The Huarmey Archaeological Project consolidates a scientific research program that began in 1997 with archaeological reconnaissance in the port area of Compañía Minera Antamina S.A., and became formalized between 1998 and 1999 with the discovery of the Punta Lobos site and the recovery of the remains of 200 fishermen sacrificed during the Chimu period.
Between December 2002 and February 2003, as part of the preliminary work, a detailed topographic survey was conducted at “Complejo Gallinazo” (“Cementerio Gallinazo”, “Huacas del Puerto” and landscape area), with the technical support of INC-managed Capac Ñam Project. Then, it was decided to continue excavation work in these cemeteries to try to find a chronological and/or cultural relationship between the discovery of fishermen remains and the people who lived in said areas throughout time. Archaeological excavations began in late April and temporarily ended in July. Conservation and research work was simultaneously carried out (textiles, ceramics and physical anthropology) in a laboratory-warehouse specifically equipped for such purpose. Conservation and disclosure work continued during 2004.
The interpretation of data gathered during the last few years suggests the existence of a local society strongly integrated by a cultural tradition related to the use of marine and farming resources, the manufacture of utensils, ceramics and textiles, and interrelationship with neighboring groups to the north, east and south. The items recovered from this site are clearly related to each other and differ from those of other cultural groups. We have called this unit “Huarmey Culture”.
The “Huarmey Port Museum or Cultural Center” project is being planned and developed with the direct involvement of local authorities and the local population, as we are trying to have the community “become identified with their cultural heritage” and actively participate in its conservation and revaluation, while improving their self-esteem and developing creative skills to improve quality of life.
Excavation work began in August 2005 in an area that we think was the administrative site during the Chimu occupation, in the so-called “Huacas del Puerto” sector. This archaeological complex consists of a series of small buildings, streets, canals and a main building. For the time being, work focuses on six research fronts and excavation work is expected to contribute more elements that will help better interpret the history of Huarmey.
