Huaca Esmeralda, Archaeological site in Trujillo, Peru.

Huaca Esmeralda is an ancient site with three levels covered in carved animal figures and diamond-shaped patterns. The different elevation levels are connected by ramps that allow you to explore all sections of this pre-Hispanic complex.

Huaca Esmeralda is an adobe structure from the Chimú culture, built in the first stage of its development in close connection with the capital Chan Chan. It is thought to have been the palace of a great Chimú lord of the Mansiche area. The site covers about 2,600 square metres.

The name combines huaca, a Quechua term for a sacred place or ceremonial cup, with Esmeralda; sources record no explanation of who Esmeralda was. The reliefs themselves depict fishing nets with fish on the entrance platform and, on the older rear platform, net and sea otter motifs like those of the Tschudi Palace at Chan Chan.

The site is located near Trujillo and is accessible on foot, though surfaces are uneven and shade is limited throughout the area. It is helpful to visit in early morning or late afternoon to avoid intense heat and direct sun exposure.

The name "Huaca Esmeralda" is usually translated as "the ceremonial cup of Esmeralda", but with little archaeological study done at the site, it is unclear who Esmeralda was or how the name was given. The word huaca itself means ceremonial cup.