The Ministry of Culture of Peru announced on April 9 that the Pacatnamú archaeological site in Guadalupe, province of Pacasmayo, region La Libertad, suffered significant damage after heavy machinery was used to remove and level over 2,000 square meters of land. The ministry said this action caused serious harm to the archaeological context.
This incident is important because it threatens the preservation of Peru’s cultural heritage and identity. 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. The ministry was created in 2010 according to the official website.
A technical inspection by specialists from the Directorate for Decentralized Culture (DDC) in La Libertad found piles of removed material, traces left by machinery, and ceramic fragments exposed on the surface as a direct result of unauthorized work at the site. Christian Arbaiza Mendoza, director of DDC La Libertad, said immediate actions are being taken while evaluation continues: “Nuestro equipo técnico está elaborando un informe detallado que formará parte de la denuncia formal, con la finalidad de que se sancione a los responsables de este atentado.”
The inspection also included participation from Alexis Huertas Cubas, sub-prefect for Guadalupe district; officers from the National Police—Guadalupe station; and representatives from Guadalupe District Municipality. The Ministry stated that administrative and legal measures will be considered which could lead to sanctions under current regulations.
The Ministry urged citizens not to undertake any unauthorized interventions affecting cultural property because these assets are intangible and represent an essential part of Peru’s historical memory. As an autonomous ministry within the Peruvian Executive Branch led by its minister according to the official website, it fosters social inclusion by protecting heritage and promoting diversity across Peru according to its official website. The ministry serves communities throughout Peru using decentralized facilities alongside its San Borja headquarters according to its official website.
Looking ahead, officials say further evaluations will determine next steps as they seek accountability for those responsible for damaging one of Peru’s important archaeological sites.
