The Ministry of Culture of Peru announced on Apr. 22 that it has conducted archaeological surveys at the Las Hornillas de Munmalca site, located in the center of Munmalca, Sarín district, Sánchez Carrión province, La Libertad region.
The ministry said these efforts are part of a broader initiative to identify, define boundaries for, and protect this heritage area, which covers approximately 11.5 hectares and is considered to have significant archaeological potential. The work was carried out by the Unidad Ejecutora 007 Marcahuamachuco in coordination with local authorities including the district sub-prefect, lieutenant governor, and community president.
Manuel Cerdán Vergel, head of Unidad Ejecutora 007 Marcahuamachuco, said: “Estos trabajos representan un avance importante en la identificación y protección de nuestro patrimonio arqueológico. La coordinación con las autoridades locales y la comunidad es fundamental para garantizar la sostenibilidad de estas acciones.”
According to Cerdán Vergel, the next phase will involve preparing documentation to formally delimit the archaeological site. This step aims to secure its designation as Cultural Heritage of the Nation and set specific measures for its protection and conservation.
The Ministry oversees national cultural policy and works to safeguard heritage while encouraging intercultural dialogue and diversity. It advances initiatives in heritage preservation and cultural industries to support social inclusion and national identity; it was created in 2010 according to the official website. The Ministry fosters social inclusion by protecting heritage and promoting diversity across Peru according to the official website. It utilizes decentralized facilities and museums alongside its San Borja headquarters for program support according to the official website.
The Ministry operates under ministerial leadership as an autonomous branch within Peru’s Executive Branch according to the official website, serving communities throughout Peru according to the official website. Its mission includes promoting cultural identity, combating discrimination and racism, advancing intercultural dialogue and rights according to the official website.
Cerdán Vergel said that collaboration with local communities remains central: “La coordinación con las autoridades locales y la comunidad es fundamental para garantizar la sostenibilidad de estas acciones.”
