Peruvian craftsman dedicates 15 years to preserving Chan Chan's ancient adobe structures

For 15 years, Arturo Rafael Jerónimo Valiente has been a quiet guardian of Chan Chan, Peru's vast adobe archaeological complex. Located in the La Libertad region, Chan Chan stands as the world's largest city built entirely of mud and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Valiente's role is crucial: he crafts specialized adobe bricks designed to preserve the ancient structures from the ravages of time and climate.

Valiente's expertise stems from a childhood spent learning the craft of artisanal brick making. This hands-on experience with earth and mud allowed him to join the preservation projects at Chan Chan. While he mastered traditional brick-making, his work at the archaeological site required him to learn new techniques tailored to the unique needs of adobe conservation. The adobes he creates incorporate specific mixtures of earth, sand, and confitillo to ensure greater resistance and longevity.

Chan Chan, once the capital of the Chimú kingdom, covers approximately 20 square kilometers, with its monumental core spanning about six. The site features ten walled citadels, along with pyramids, roads, canals, and cemeteries, showcasing the advanced civilization that flourished before the Spanish conquest. Its urban planning reveals a sophisticated organization, with each citadel divided into sectors for specific functions, including plazas, audience halls, storage areas, and burial platforms.

Valiente's dedication goes beyond mere craftsmanship; it's a deep connection to the history embedded in the adobe walls. He views each workday as an opportunity to admire the scale of the city built by the Chimú culture. His ongoing labor ensures that this significant piece of human history continues to stand for future generations.