When planning your trip, Cusco is likely to be at the forefront of your itinerary. This captivating city captivates visitors with its historic buildings, charming cobblestone streets, and cozy cafes adorned with delightful balconies. Stepping into Cusco feels like taking a journey back in time. As the former capital of the Inca Empire, this city is teeming with archeological wonders, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the Cusco ruins.
Remnants of the Inca Empire can be found throughout Cusco, as many structures were constructed atop the ancient ruins. Strolling along the city’s streets, you’ll witness the striking contrast between the old and the new.
While some Cusco ruins can be reached on foot, taking a guided tour provides the added convenience of transportation and insightful information about the sites. Besides, embarking on a two-hour hike to Puka Pukara and Tambomachay alone might be strenuous, especially if you’re not accustomed to hiking. It’s best to conserve your energy for the awe-inspiring experience awaiting you at Machu Picchu. (Of course, assuming that not everyone is in prime hiking shape! 🙃)
Qorikancha, The Temple of the Sun, holds immense significance in the Inca Empire. This remarkable structure, which you can admire in the first picture of this post, was revered as the holiest site in Incan culture and served as the epicenter of their beliefs. Dedicated to the highest gods, particularly Inti, the sun god, Qorikancha boasted walls adorned with gold and a magnificent gold statue of Inti embellished with precious jewels.
Saqsayhuaman: Exploring Majestic Cusco Ruins
One of the notable Cusco ruins is Sacsayhuaman, and our guide made sure we remembered its pronunciation: “sexy woman.” Perched on a hill overlooking Cusco, Sacsayhuaman is a formidable fortress complex.
What makes Incan architecture truly fascinating is its intricate stonework. The stones were meticulously cut and shaped to fit together flawlessly. The vertical rock walls exhibit remarkable craftsmanship, devoid of any visible cracks. Constructing anything with these stones was a laborious process. Moreover, some of the rocks are colossal, with the largest estimated to weigh between 150-200 tons. You’ll encounter one of the most massive stone cuts here.
Another intriguing aspect is the zigzag pattern in which the rocks are laid. This design is said to mimic the contours of the mountains behind them. When the sun casts its shadow, it creates a remarkable illusion resembling the peaks and valleys of a mountain range.
Venturing to another section of Sacsayhuaman, you’ll discover natural rock slides. The origins of these slides remain a mystery, but they offer a natural playground for children and a fun attraction to explore.
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When planning your trip, Cusco is likely to be at the forefront of your itinerary. This captivating city captivates visitors with its historic buildings, charming cobblestone streets, and cozy cafes adorned with delightful balconies. Stepping into Cusco feels like taking a journey back in time. As the former capital of the Inca Empire, this city is teeming with archeological wonders, making it an ideal starting point for exploring the Cusco ruins.
Remnants of the Inca Empire can be found throughout Cusco, as many structures were constructed atop the ancient ruins. Strolling along the city’s streets, you’ll witness the striking contrast between the old and the new.
While some Cusco ruins can be reached on foot, taking a guided tour provides the added convenience of transportation and insightful information about the sites. Besides, embarking on a two-hour hike to Puka Pukara and Tambomachay alone might be strenuous, especially if you’re not accustomed to hiking. It’s best to conserve your energy for the awe-inspiring experience awaiting you at Machu Picchu. (Of course, assuming that not everyone is in prime hiking shape!)
