The Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipán (Museum of the Royal Tombs of Sipán), located in Lambayeque, is one of the best museums in Peru. Constructed in the shape of a Moche Pyramid, this modern museum was built to showcase the treasures unearthed from the Royal Tombs of Sipán, particularly the Lord of Sipán, El Señor de Sipán.
Unlike most of the
archeological sites along the coast of Peru, which were pilfered by grave robbers, the tomb of Lord Sipán remained undisturbed until it was discovered in 1987. The discovery was made by Dr. Walter Alva, who is now the director of the Museo Tumbas Reales de Sipán. This discovery is considered the most important archeological find in Peru during the last 50 years. The tomb contained a wealth of treasures, meant to accompany the Lord of Sipán on his journey to the after life.
The museum has three main sections. One floor is devoted to Moche artifacts, primarily ceramics. Below this is the floor which contains the stunning gold and silver treasures recovered from the tomb. On the lowest level is a reproduction of the tomb as it was when it was discovered. There is also an audio visual presentation on El Señor de Sipán.