Sican, also known as Lambayeque or Sicán, refers to a pre-Columbian civilization that thrived in the Lambayeque region of present-day Peru. The term "Sican" is derived from the names of two rivers that run through the region, the La Leche and Lambayeque rivers.
The Sican civilization emerged around the 8th century AD and reached its peak between the 11th and 14th centuries. They built a powerful state centered around their capital, which is believed to have been the city of Batan Grande. The Sican were skilled in crafts such as metallurgy, pottery, and textile production.
The Sican are particularly renowned for their impressive goldwork, known as "Sican gold." They crafted intricate jewelry, masks, ceremonial objects, and ornaments using gold alloys and other precious materials. Their artworks often depicted religious and mythological figures, reflecting their spiritual beliefs.
The Sican civilization collapsed around the 14th century, likely due to a combination of internal strife and external pressures. The region was eventually conquered by the Inca Empire. Today, the remnants of the Sican civilization can be explored at several archaeological sites, including the Túcume pyramids and the Sican National Museum.
In summary, Sican refers to a pre-Columbian civilization that flourished in the Lambayeque region of Peru. They left behind a cultural legacy characterized by their advanced metallurgical skills, particularly their distinctive goldwork.
