Museo Nacional de Arqueología

Overview

The Museo Nacional de Arqueología, Antropología e Historia del Perú is the oldest state museum in Peru, tracing the country's civilisations from early hunter-gatherers to the Inca Empire.

Highlights

• Raimondi Stela: A carved granite monolith from the Chavín culture (c. 900 BC).
• Moche ceramics: Remarkably expressive portrait vessels and erotic pottery.
• Inca room: Quipus, textiles, and metalwork from the Tawantinsuyu empire.

History

Founded in 1822, just one year after Peru's independence, the museum moved to its present location in Pueblo Libre in the 1940s. The building itself was the colonial headquarters of Viceroy La Serna.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Combine with the nearby Museo Larco, which is a 5-minute walk away.
• Tip 2: Guided tours in English are available with advance booking.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.