Cajamarca

Cajamarca is a city in the northern highlands of Peru, and serves as the capital of the Cajamarca Region and the seat of Cajamarca Province. The town lies in a highland valley at an elevation around 2,750 meters above sea level, set among volcanic and green landscapes. The climate is cool and temperate, with a distinct dry season.

Historically the area was inhabited before the expansion of the Inca Empire and later became part of the Inca realm. In 1532, Spanish conquistadors led by Francisco Pizarro defeated and captured the Inca ruler Atahualpa in Cajamarca, an event that helped open the conquest of the Inca Empire.

The local economy has traditionally centered on agriculture, livestock, and commerce, with mining and related services growing in recent decades. The region hosts significant mining activity near Cajamarca, including the Yanacocha gold deposit, one of the world's largest, and tourism contributes through natural and archaeological attractions.

Sites and culture include a historic center focused around the Plaza de Armas, with colonial churches and notable mansions. Nearby attractions include the Cumbemayo archaeological site and aqueducts, and the Ventanillas de Otuzco rock-cut niches in surrounding valleys. The city is served by educational institutions such as the Universidad Nacional de Cajamarca, which contributes to education and research.

Transportation connects Cajamarca by road to Lima and other regions, and the city is served by a regional airport with flights to Lima and other Peruvian cities.