Famous Japanese archaeologist Izumi Shimada brought to our attention not many months ago the systematic destruction of the Sicán pyramids and algarobo forests by invasores – squatters who illegaly occupy land. Rushing to Peru and forced to abandon his teaching position in South Illinois University, he attempted to make local authorities to take action. Unfortunately, regional police chief Víctor Ordinola explained his force was too busy preparing for independence day festivities.
It had been almost 7 years since the natural and archaeological sanctuary of the Bosque de Pomac had been invaded and settled. The destruction was immediate, with vast areas of natural habitat for endangered species destroyed. With the destruction of part of an ancient Sicán temple, and after a six month delay, local authorities yesterday decided to act.
January 21, 2009 | News
New excavations have uncovered two burials of Sicán elite. The co-director of the archaeological project, Carlos Elera Arévalo, explains that the remains of both bodies were found with gold, silver and copper ornaments that demonstrate their position in their society, and the period during which they lived – around 900-1100 BC.
November 28, 2008 | Archaeology, News
On the banks of the Rio Leche is the Pomac Forest, ancestral home of the Sicán civilisation and builders of tens of truncated pyramids throughout the valley, many of which were brought to the attention of the world by Japanese archaeologist Izumi Shimada.
It is he again that brings to the world the news that one of the 3,000 year old structures is being systematically destroyed by people invading the protected area and planting crops on the pyramid itself.
July 30, 2008 | News, Opinion
Not to be confused with the similarly named archaeological site of Sipán, the Sicán were an ancient civilisation that developed in northern Peru between 800 and 1300 AD. Also known as the Lambayeque culture, they were a people of metal workers and pyramid builders descended from the Moche, with trade connections and influence from peoples in the nearby mountains, rainforest and regions such as modern day Ecuador. Their trade system also gave them access to feathers from the Amazon to the east and lapis lazuli from Chile, far to the south.
December 27, 2007 | Archaeology, Culture & History, Lambayeque & Chiclayo Guide
