La Libertad Department, Administrative region in northern Peru
La Libertad is an administrative region in northern Peru that stretches from the Pacific shore inland through mountain ranges and into forested areas. The capital, Trujillo, sits near the coast, while the territory extends eastward into the highlands and parts of the jungle.
The region gained independence from Spain in 1820 and took its current name five years later. It was formerly known as the Department of Trujillo and was renamed after liberation.
The department holds numerous archaeological remains from the Moche and Chimu civilizations, including Chan Chan, the largest pre-Columbian adobe city in South America.
The region is best explored from Trujillo, which serves as a starting point for trips to coastal towns, mountains, or rainforest areas. Travelers should note that climate varies greatly by elevation and pack clothing accordingly.
The territory includes all three of Peru's natural zones within its borders: the Pacific coast, the Andean range, and sections of the Amazon rainforest. This variety allows visitors to travel from sea level to mountains and into jungle within the same region.
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