With the decline of the Wari Empire the era of kingdoms and regional confederations in the Lima region began. Social groups constituted regional states (characteristic for this time period), but these changes first brought turbulent times with social agitation, political and cultural instability to the region.

Regional chiefs from Ichma (Pachacamac), Pucllana (Miraflores), Huallamarca (San Isidro), Collique, Maranga and Puruchuco came to power. Around the same time (1100 AD to 1440 AD) a major local culture, the Chancay, developed in the north of Lima and extended its influence to the south as far as Pachacamac. The influence of the Chancay Culture on the Lima region seems to have been mainly of cultural and commercial nature not political.

The Chancay developed special techniques to manufacture amazing ceramics and to weave marvelous textiles that enhanced their prestige. Until today they are famous for their astonishing and unique craftsmanship.