San Juan de Pariachi, archaeological site in Lima, Peru
San Juan de Pariachi is an archaeological site in Lima containing remains of ancient walls, platforms, and terraces built with stone and clay. The structures are distributed across three main groups of ruins that show how early inhabitants organized their settlement on the hillside.
The site dates to pre-Hispanic times and served as a local administrative center during Inca rule before Spanish arrival. After centuries of use, it was abandoned and later partially restored so visitors could understand its original form.
The name Pariachi derives from the language of the area's ancient inhabitants and refers to a place where rituals and ceremonies took place. Visitors can still see the open plaza-like space where the community likely gathered and shared moments together.
The site is easily reached from Lima and best explored during daylight at your own pace. Wear comfortable shoes as the ground is uneven, and bring water if visiting on a hot day.
Archaeologists have uncovered pottery, tools, and objects made of wood and metal that reveal the daily activities people performed here long ago. These findings provide concrete clues about how inhabitants actually lived and worked on the site.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
