Since 2009, within the framework of the Ánimas Altas Archaeological Program in Ica, Peru — under the direction of the au-thors — systematic excavations have been carried out in the Ánimas Altas/Ánimas Bajas archaeological complex, the center ofthe Paracas culture in the lower Ica valley. To date, the project has documented public-ceremonial architecture as well as domesticand production areas. Additionally, excavations have revealed evidence of pyramidal complexes contiguous to plazas, one smallpyramid housing an elite tomb decorated with a mural frieze, and remnants of dwellings and storage areas.In this article, we attempt to understand the function that Ánimas had during its prehispanic occupation, using data from recent excavations at the site. Our analysis draws on a wide range of material culture categories to facilitate reflections on the concepts of ‘city’ and ...