Narihualá, Archaeological site in Catacaos district, Peru.
Narihualá is an ancient ceremonial site near Catacaos with two main pyramid-shaped structures built from adobe and supported by vast foundations. The construction reveals how skillfully the ancient inhabitants engineered these buildings using local materials.
The site arose between the 10th and 15th centuries and served as the seat of Tallán rule in northern Peru. The Tallán civilization ended with the arrival of the Inca, marking the close of their independent culture.
This was an important religious and administrative hub for the Tallán people in their territory. Visitors can still sense this former significance through how the structures are arranged and their relationship to the surrounding landscape.
The site sits within reasonable distance of Piura city and is best explored with a local guide who can explain what you are seeing. Wear sturdy shoes and bring water, as the area is open and exposed to sun.
Excavated wooden objects, especially from Algarrobo and carob wood, show how the Tallán skillfully worked with local timber to craft everyday tools and goods. These finds are uncommon because organic materials usually don't survive the centuries.
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