The Moche Civilization, also known as Mochica or Early Chimú, flourished in northern Peru from about 100 to 800 AD. Here are some detailed insights into this fascinating culture:
The Moche civilization was centered in the Moche Valley and expanded into adjacent valleys, including the Chicama Valley and Viru Valley. This region is now part of the modern-day departments of La Libertad and Lambayeque.
The Moche did not form a single unified state but rather a series of smaller, interconnected polities. Their society was highly stratified with a ruling elite, priests, warriors, artisans, and farmers. The Huacas de Moche, including the Huaca del Sol and Huaca de la Luna, were central to their religious and political life.
Art was a significant aspect of Moche culture:
The Moche economy was primarily agricultural, relying on sophisticated irrigation systems to grow crops like maize, beans, squash, and cotton. They also had a robust trade network, exchanging goods like Spondylus Shells, which were considered valuable.
Religion was central to Moche culture, with deities often depicted in their art:
The decline of the Moche civilization is attributed to several factors:
Despite their decline, the Moche left a lasting legacy in the form of their art, architecture, and cultural practices, influencing subsequent cultures in the region. Their influence can be seen in the Chimu Culture, which absorbed many Moche traditions.