Between
the years 400 and 600 B.C. the Chavin civilization flourished in this zone.
The importance of the Chavins not only lies in their antiquity, but also in
the fact that they developed a culture, which had great influence on other
regions including the Andean and Amazonian territories. The name "Chavin"
derives from the Quechua word "Chaupin" which means: center or headquarters.
The first Spaniards came to Huaylas attracted by the wealth of minerals in
the area. Spaniards began to destroy Incan cities when Indians attempted to
search for silver and gold. When Francisco Pizarro was in Cajamarca he heard
some stories about the riches that could be found in the Santa Valley and
decided to move there. After bloody battles against Huaylas and Conchucos,
the Spaniards conquered the Indians. By that time, Jeronimo de Alvarado
founded the city of Huaraz. During the Independence, Simon Bolivar
established his headquarters in Huaraz, which is the capital of the
department.
In 1970 a strong earthquake shook the Santa Valley known as the Callejón de
Huaylas. More than 50,000 people died and 186,000 houses were damaged.
Yungay was the city that suffered the most damage and virtually disappeared.
Tourism
Ancash is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Peru due not
only to its beauty, but to the wide variety of sports that are offered.
Visitors admire the beautiful snowfalls and glaciers of the White
Cordillera, lagoons, thermal baths, and lush valleys. The Alpamayo Mountain
is considered one of the most beautiful in the world. Ancash is often
referred to as "Switzerland of South America". The highest peak in Peru is
Huascaran. The Huascaran National Park is also located here and is worth
visiting.
Tours in Huaraz:
The Cordillera Blanca:
Snow, mountains and top adventure 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS
F/D PASTORURI