The Ministry of Culture of Peru announced on April 22 that the archaeological site Huaca El Huerto, sectors A and B, located in the district of Salas in Ica province and department, has been declared National Cultural Heritage due to its historical value and evidence linked to the Ica culture.
This designation includes approval of a technical delimitation file for the site, which contains a descriptive report, cadastral sheet, and perimeter plan. Sector A covers an area of 5,549.14 square meters with a perimeter of 281.28 meters; Sector B covers 7,081.05 square meters with a perimeter of 323.01 meters.
Huaca El Huerto is described as a large pyramidal structure with significant volume and structural solidity. Some sections still preserve traces of mural coatings in ochre and white tones, reflecting its aesthetic and architectural value. The site served as an administrative, urban, and ceremonial center during the Late Intermediate Period (900 CE – 1440 CE), constructed by the Ica culture before later occupation by the Inca Empire.
The archaeological importance lies in material remains that provide key sources for studying this culture’s social organization, lifestyles, and beliefs within the Ica valley. The structure forms part of a group of pyramidal buildings situated on the plain along the Ica River valley—further reinforcing its historical and scientific significance while contributing to regional identity.
According to the official website, the Ministry fosters social inclusion by protecting heritage sites like Huaca El Huerto while promoting diversity across Peru. The ministry also operates through decentralized facilities alongside its San Borja headquarters to support cultural programs throughout communities nationwide according to its website. As an autonomous ministry under Peru’s Executive Branch according to official information, it leads national cultural policy initiatives focused on safeguarding heritage assets while advancing intercultural dialogue.
To complete this process for Huaca El Huerto’s new status as National Cultural Heritage property within defined boundaries, registration will be managed by the Directorate for Cadastre and Legal Physical Regularization.
The Ministry affirms: “El Ministerio de Cultura reafirma su compromiso con la protección, conservación y puesta en valor del patrimonio cultural del país, promoviendo acciones que garanticen su preservación y contribuyan al fortalecimiento de la identidad nacional.”
Looking ahead, efforts from both central offices and local facilities are expected to continue supporting preservation measures for such sites—an approach that aligns with broader goals set out since creation in 2010 according to ministry records.
