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Trujillo, Peru, known as the City of Eternal Spring, is the country’s third largest city, located in the northwest part of Peru and 350 miles from its capital, Lima. The occupation of this Inca settlement was taken over upon the arrival of the Spanish conquistador Diego de Almagro, on December 6, 1534. He named the city Trujillo, after the city in Spain where Francisco Pizarro was born. Pizarro led the Spanish invasion that took over most of Peru in the early 1500’s. Trujillo was one of the first cities that the Spanish took over in the America’s. Its rich culture was what made this city such a desirable settling ground for early civilization. The Moche and Chimu civilization was established throughout the region between 100 and 800 AD. Many artifacts and relics were left behind as the territory expanded and developed. Much of the pottery depicted the lifestyle that was cultivated by these early natives. Moche archaeological sites can be found a short distance from the southern borders of the city which are worth visiting. The Sun Temple (Huaca El Sol) and the Moon Temple (Huaca La Luna), are two of the incredible ruins that can be toured. The most famous site is the excavated ruins of Chan Chan. This city was developed by the Chimu and reached its peak in the 1400’s, and soon after was taken over by the Incas. The Inca occupation was also short lived because of the invasion of the Spanish inquisition in 1534. The Spanish developed this city into a very desirable place, especially drawing interest from pirates. To protect their city the new occupants constructed a large wall to surround the city in order to keep other intruders out. Today that wall is a wonderful display of history that lies within its enclosure. Inside these protective walls you will find beautiful pastel mansions with wrought iron window guards. Casa Urquiage is one of those mansions of interest. This is where Simon Bolivar lived for 2 years in the 1820’s. Visit some of the churches built by the Spanish or take a walk along the Plaza de Armas to enjoy an evening stroll through the shops.

Apart from the Spanish décor and archaeological sites, that are quite impressive, you can enjoy the traditional festivities and favorite points of interest, such as the pristine beaches. The surfing in this area is famous for the longest waves in this part of the coastline. Every March there is a surfing competition for the diehard surfer. In January the National Marinera Dance Contest is held and allot of fun. You can plan your trip in October to celebrate the International Spring Festival, thus the name “City of Eternal Spring”, where Trujillo is hailed as the most agreeable weather all year round. One of the best beaches around is the vacation spot of Huanchaco. Here are some of the best hotels in the area, and if you are thinking of a visit to Chan Chan it would be a great place to spend the night before taking off for the ruins. As you settle into your stay, enjoy a luscious dinner of Ceviche at any one of the seafood restaurants that serve this signature Peruvian dish of marinated fish. There is so much to enjoy in this lovely city, so put it at the top of your list of things to do, as you make your way through the magical land of my Peru.