Peruvian earthen architecture: Reflections on traditional constructive techniques

Abstract

This study, carried out by the authors from a research developed in 2011, presents a series of reflections on Peruvian earthen constructive systems. Undoubtedly, these solutions are the result of a perfect combination of adaptation to local climate, seismic resistance and low cost of production. There is certain continuity between the Pre-Inca constructive skills and those of the following civilizations (Inca or Viceroyalty). The “Constructive Grammar” does not change drastically through the centuries. Earthen architecture is always the protagonist, according to the availability of autochthonous raw materials, such as reeds, cactus gel and carob timber. 1.2 The research method and the addressed visits Visiting the different archaeological sites has enabled us to understand a range of constructive techniques, including those relating to the people that began occupying the Peruvian coastal area (Alvarino Guzman 2001), and at the same time, other constructive traditions that were developed in the less accessible pre-Andean territory (Velarte 1978). In total, 7 provinces of the Country have been selected, and more of 10,000 kms have been covered in two months (including the Province of Lambayeque, Ica, La Libertad, Ancash, Lima, Arequipa, and Cusco). More than 15 archaeological sites have been visited after speaking with different earthen architecture specialists and key-contacts. More specifically, in the north of the country, the authors visited the archaeological sites of Huaca del Sol and Huaca de la Luna (Moche Civilization, 100–700 a. C.), and Chan Chan, (Chimu Civilization, 900–1470 a. C.), both close to the northern city of Trujillo (Rodriguez Suy Suy 1971, Campana Delgado 2001). Archaeological sites visits were completed by talks and discussions with experts and technicians, in particular in the ancient sites of Chotuna (Moche Civilization). In Lima and its surroundings, it was possible to get to know in detail the Lima Civilization (550 a. C.) especially in the areas of Huaca Puccllana, Huaca Huallamarca and Pachacamac (Cardenas Martin 1998). In the outskirts of the city, it was possible to study the site of Caral (Shady Solis et al. 2008), which together with Ventarron and Collud form the “golden triangle” of primordial Pre-Columbian Cultures (5000–1800 b.C.). On the other hand, the visits to the southern provinces centered on the surrounding of Nazca