What are the Temple of the Sun and Temple of the Moon near Trujillo?

The Temple of the Sun (Huaca del Sol) and the Temple of the Moon (Huaca de la Luna) are two massive structures located in the Moche River valley near Trujillo, Peru. These sites served as a major political and ceremonial center for the Moche culture, which flourished on the northern coast of Peru between the 1st and 8th centuries CE.12

• Temple of the Sun (Huaca del Sol): This structure is a large stepped pyramid and causeway, measuring approximately 1,090 by 446 feet at its base and reaching a height of 135 feet.1
• Temple of the Moon (Huaca de la Luna): Situated a short distance from the Temple of the Sun, this site consists of a terraced platform built against a natural hillside, featuring various courtyards and large rooms.13

Although these names are traditionally used, there is no archaeological evidence to confirm that the structures were specifically dedicated to the sun or the moon. The surrounding area shows evidence of dense occupation, suggesting that the site functioned as a city rather than solely as a ceremonial complex.1