What it was
Ruled from its adobe capital Chan Chan, Chimor controlled a long stretch of coast through irrigation, roads, and administration. It was the leading power of the Late Intermediate period.
Role
Its economy rested on vast irrigation networks and on the mass production of fine metalwork, textiles, and pottery. Chimú goldsmiths were especially renowned.
Fate
The expanding Inca conquered Chimor around 1470, absorbing its wealth and skilled artisans. Its traditions passed into the Inca Empire and later colonial Peru.