Highlights of the Museo de Arqueología de Trujillo

This museum is not just about the objects inside. The colonial architecture of the house itself is a sight to see. Here are some of the best quick picks for your visit:

• Best overall: Moche ceramic hall.
• Best for families: The central courtyard.
• Best rainy-day: The textiles room.
• Best free-nearby: Plaza de Armas.

The collection follows a chronological order that is very easy to navigate. Each room focuses on a specific era or civilization. You will see everything from tiny gold beads to massive ceramic jars. The site is rarely crowded, making it a peaceful escape from the busy downtown streets of Trujillo. Use the list below to find the must-see items and nearby locations.

1. Name: Casa Ricketts (Museum Building)
   Type: sight
   Why go: It is a perfectly preserved colonial mansion with high ceilings and bright courtyards.
   Best for: Architecture lovers.
   Where: Jirón Junín 682.
   Time: 20 minutes.
   Cost: Included in entry.
   Getting there: Walk two blocks from the main square.
   Tip: Look up to see the ornate wood-carved balconies.
2. Name: Cupisnique Ceramic Collection
   Type: experience
   Why go: These are some of the oldest artifacts in the museum, dating back to 1000 BC.
   Best for: Ancient history fans.
   Where: First exhibition room.
   Time: 15 minutes.
   Cost: Museum fee (~10 Soles).
   Getting there: Follow the path from the entrance.
   Tip: Notice the distinct feline motifs that represent their gods.
3. Name: Salinar Jewelry Exhibit
   Type: sight
   Why go: Witness the early transition of metalworking skills in northern Peru.
   Best for: Art students.
   Where: Metallurgy room.
   Time: 10 minutes.
   Cost: Included in entry.
   Getting there: Located in the second corridor.
   Tip: These items show how early people used copper and gold together.
4. Name: Moche Portrait Vessels
   Type: experience
   Why go: These ceramics show incredibly realistic human faces of ancient leaders.
   Best for: Photographers and art lovers.
   Where: Moche Culture Hall.
   Time: 20 minutes.
   Cost: Included in ticket.
   Getting there: Central section of the house.
   Tip: The expressions on the faces are unique to each vessel.
5. Name: Nazca and Huari Textiles
   Type: sight
   Why go: See how ancient weavers kept colors bright for over a thousand years.
   Best for: Fashion and design fans.
   Where: Textile Gallery.
   Time: 15 minutes.
   Cost: Included.
   Getting there: Follow signs to the climate-controlled rooms.
   Tip: The low lighting is there to protect the delicate fibers.
6. Name: Chimu Wood Sculptures
   Type: sight
   Why go: These life-sized wooden figures guarded the cities of the Chimu kings.
   Best for: Fans of sculpture.
   Where: Late Intermediate Period room.
   Time: 10 minutes.
   Cost: Included.
   Getting there: Near the back of the museum.
   Tip: These are similar to those found at Chan Chan ruins nearby.
7. Name: Inca Provincial Pottery
   Type: experience
   Why go: Understand how the Inca Empire influenced local coastal styles.
   Best for: Getting a complete view of Peru's history.
   Where: Final exhibition room.
   Time: 15 minutes.
   Cost: Included.
   Getting there: Located near the exit.
   Tip: Look for the "Aryballos" jars with pointed bases.
8. Name: Huacas del Sol y de la Luna
   Type: day trip
   Why go: These massive mud-brick pyramids were the religious center for the Moche.
   Best for: Adventurers.
   Where: 15 minutes southeast of the city.
   Time: 3 hours.
   Cost: Separate entry fee (~15 Soles).
   Getting there: Take a taxi or a tour of the Huacas del Sol and Luna.
   Tip: Go early in the morning to avoid the strong sun.
9. Name: Plaza de Armas of Trujillo
   Type: sight
   Why go: It is the vibrant primary square surrounded by colorful colonial buildings.
   Best for: Relaxing and people-watching.
   Where: Center of Trujillo.
   Time: 30 minutes.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Five-minute walk from the museum.
   Tip: Visit at night to see the Freedom Monument illuminated.

Managing Your Museum Visit in Trujillo

When planning your trip, remember that most museums in town have specific hours. The Museo de Arqueologia usually opens from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It often closes for a lunch break on certain days. It is wise to check with the Universidad Nacional de Trujillo for any holiday closures. This will save you a wasted trip to the door.

We recommend starting your day at this museum. It gives you the context needed to enjoy other top attractions near Trujillo later. The information boards are mostly in Spanish, so a translation app is helpful. You can also hire a local guide at the entrance for more detail. They usually work for tips and offer great stories about the ancestors.

Security is good inside the museum, and the area is safe during the day. However, always stay aware of your bags in the crowded streets nearby. If you have extra time, walk to the nearby church of Santo Domingo. Trujillo is a walkable city if you stay within the historic center. Following these simple steps ensures a great experience in the city of eternal spring.