It is one of the archaeological complexes with the most history in the capital of Peru, at just 15 minutes from the Historic Center of Lima.
Peru's great geographic diversity, cultural richness, and historical heritage make it an endless stage for film locations. Precisely, different filmmakers, both national and foreign, continue to explore the national territory in search of unique places for their productions. Among these new scenarios that are positioning themselves in the Peruvian film industry is the Mateo Salado Archaeological Complex, a place of mysticism and tradition in the country's capital, which was an administrative ceremonial center of the Ichma Culture, one of the most representative cultures of the city of Lima.
The name of this archaeological site evokes the history of a 16th-century French hermit, Matheus Saladé, who was the first person executed by the Holy Inquisition in Peru; furthermore, it is said that the phrase "estar salado" (to be salty) originates from there, which in popular slang means to have bad luck.
The archaeological complex offers a variety of locations that captivate with their monumentality, mystery, and history. It is composed of five imposing stepped pyramids and other smaller structures that stimulate the imagination with their enigmatic buildings. Pyramid A, with its 150 meters in length and 18 meters in height, stands as the main temple of the complex, while Pyramid B, the second largest, features monumental courtyards and stairways suggesting the grandeur of an ancient palace.(1)
However, the history of Mateo Salado is not limited to its pyramids. A walled enclosure surrounds the main structures, preserving their essence through the centuries. Additionally, a walled path extends along the western lower part of Pyramid A, providing a unique tour of the complex.
With its combination of history, architecture, and stunning landscapes, Mateo Salado offers a unique setting for the film industry, where the ancient and the modern blend into an unparalleled visual experience.
Accessibility and logistics
The director of the Mateo Salado Archaeological Complex, Pedro Espinoza, mentions that as a historically significant space for the country, it is equipped to host film locations both during the day and night. Additionally, it has all the basic services (water, electricity, drainage, and electrical connections), as well as terraced areas that are easily accessible, allowing the entry of buses, vans, or the use of light generators to enhance illumination. Furthermore, the capacity of this location is approximately 6,500 people to the north and about 1,900 to the south.
For filming and/or photography at this location, a permit from the Ministry of Culture is required. For Film personalized aid by Film in Peru's team, please contact [email protected].
Unique experience in Latin America
In 2020, this was the setting for the Peruvian film 'Contactado,' directed by Peruvian filmmaker Marité Ugás, which was present at the prestigious Tribeca Film Festival in New York. “The archaeological sites, within the urban fabric of Lima, provides a unique character (to the film). There is no city in Latin America that has this imprint,” stated Solange de Assis, an actress in the film.
Marité Ugás highlighted the audience's surprise when observing this film location. “One of the most surprising things about showing the film internationally is the audience's astonishment at seeing an archaeological site embedded in the middle of a city,” said the director.
(1) Source: https://qhapaqnan.cultura.pe/content/proyecto-integral-mateo-salado
