The city consists of low buildings,
usually 3 stories or less, due to frequent earthquakes. Bright colors
and pastel colors are popular to add a splash to the city. Everywhere
are small businesses, tiny shops, bicycle carts and corner kiosks.
There are plenty of police about.
Off at 0800 with a group. We worked
our way back up to Pueblo Libres, parked and walked a block to
another former Hacienda now Museum; the National Museum of
Anthropology and Archeology which specializes in pre-Columbian works.
(See www.museonacional.perucultural.org.pe
) Along with the collection of pottery and weaving are maps and
dioramas to help explain the cultures and civilizations.
After a long ride South along the
coast to Miraflores, Baranco then Chorillos we had a good look at
Peruvians enjoying the beach. Surfing was popular this morning even
though the Humboldt current brings cool water. Interior of Chorillos
we noted many low brick and concrete block homes sprung up on the
barren hillsides with narrow dirt/sand streets. These are the barrios
of Chorillos.
Then a short hop up the Pan-American
highway to the site of the Pachacamac ruins. (see www.pachamac.net
) This city was built about 700 AD. Here we eyed the ruins of a
pyramid temple and the great North-South street than ran through the
ancient city. Up the hill we saw the digs where mummies have been
uncovered, then went down to see the reconstruction of a large
building. I won't go into detail as the website will provide that
info.
Down in the valley below Pachacama we
pulled in to the Hacienda Mamacona, a beautiful private ranch where
we were greeted by a brass band and costumed dancers, offered cold
drinks and yucca strips w/dip. While we sat under a canopy expert
horsemen displayed the techniques of the famous Peruvian trotting
horses; quite an impressive show. The band played and dancers
performed traditional Peruvian dance. More horse show followed and
again more music and dancing. Then an outstanding buffet of
traditional foods served in the shade. More dancing and music was
enjoyed during lunch. Many took advantage of a ride around the ring
upon one of the fine horses of the ranch. The entire experience at
this Hacienda was top notch, everything had been carefully planned
and orchestrated so the experience was flawless. This stop gets our
coveted 10 rating.
(See www.haciendamamacona.com.pe
)
There was a long ride back to the ship
and we were back on board by 1630. At 1700 we left the pier and
sailed out. It was to be a quiet night sailing at about 10 knots for
our next port is only 127 nm South.
No comments:
Post a Comment