Cajamarca is located in the Northern Highlands in Peru, in the department of Cajamarca. It is approximately 8,900 ft above sea level and has a population of about 100,000 people. Cajamarca has an equatorial climate so it is mild, dry and sunny, which creates very fertile soil. The city is well-known for its fine cheeses and dairy products. Cajamarca is also known for its churches, and hot springs, or Inca Baths. There are also several active mining sites which are still active in surrounding areas.
History
The origin of the city goes back over 3,000 years. Traces of the Chavin culture can be seen in surrounding archaeological sites such as Cumbe Mayo. In 1450, Cápac Yupanqui conquered the area and brought Cajamarca into the Tawantinsuyu. In 1532, there was a huge battle. A small group of Spanish under Francisco Pizarro took the Inca Atahualpa as their prisoner at the Plaza de Armas, or main square. Atahualpa had to fill the famous the "Rescue Room", El Cuarto del Rescate, with silver and gold so that he could be freed. In exchange for his liberty, Atahualpa agreed to fill the large room with six tons of gold and 12 tons of silver. In the end, Pizzaro did not keep his promise and Atahualpa was killed. For a detailed description, refer to John Hemming’s book, Conquest of the Incas. On Feb 11, 1855, Cajamarca received the supreme decree from President Castilla and became the official capital of the department of Cajamarca.