Trujillo [key], city (1993 pop. 256,744), capital of La Libertad dept., NW Peru, in a fertile oasis of the coastal desert. A thriving commercial and industrial center, Trujillo processes sugarcane and rice and produces textiles, leather goods, and food products. Founded in 1536, the city played a significant role in the struggle against Spanish rule. It declared its independence in 1820, served as provisional capital of Peru in 1825, and was the main headquarters for Simón Bolívar. Points of interest include the remains of a wall built in 1617 to defend against English pirates and the Univ. of La Libertad. The pre-Inca ruins of Chan Chan are nearby.
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