The Moche culture: architectural mastery and sustainability in their environment

Abstract

Objective. To examine the architecture of the Moche culture in order to understand how its construction practices reflect its adaptation to the environment, its cultural values and its social structure. Method. Through an in-depth analysis of their construction techniques and architectural elements, we sought to identify how these factors allowed the Moche to consolidate in the coastal region of ancient Peru and express their beliefs and social organization through their buildings. Results. Several Key findings were revealed. Thus, it was identified that the Moche employed innovative techniques in adobe construction to resist the adverse seismic and climatic conditions of their environment. Monumental buildings, such as the Huaca del Sol and Huaca de la Luna, stood out for their decorative friezes, which illustrate the use of architecture as a means of religious and cultural expression, consolidating a collective identity. In addition, the study shows that the Moche urban distribution organized spaces according to a hierarchical social structure, separating residential, productive and ceremonial areas, which evidences a society with clearly defined roles and a focus on the functionality of its habitational and ceremonial spaces. Conclusions. Moche architecture reflects an adaptation, both functional and symbolic, to its natural and social environment. Their constructions, whether monumental or residential, not only responded to practical and climatic needs, but also acted as vehicles of cultural expression and cosmovision, which shows a deep connection between the physical space and the cultural identity of the Moche society.