Moche

The Moche civilization flourished in Northern Peru from about 200 AD to 800 AD. They are noted for the elaborate painted ceramics and pottery, goldwork and irrigation systems. Moche history is broadly categorized into five periods based on the increasing complexity of pottery decoration.

The Moche lived principally in three river valleys - the Chicama, the Moche, and the Viru. Major Moche cities include Sipan and Huancaco.

Moche religion featured a figure called the "Decapitator" depicted with octopus-like arms and thought to figure in ritual human sacrifice.

The Moche were succeeded by the Huari and Chimu cultures.

External Links

Grim rites of the Moche