Among the most revered structures of the Inca Empire stood Qorikancha, prominently featured as the first picture in this post. This magnificent building housed The Temple of the Sun and held unparalleled significance in Incan culture, serving as the epicenter of their spiritual and societal life. Dedicated to the highest gods, with a special focus on Inti, the god of the sun, Qorikancha was a place of immense reverence.
The Temple of the Sun within Qorikancha boasted walls adorned with pure gold and a gilded statue of Inti embellished with precious jewels. It was a testament to the opulence and grandeur of Incan craftsmanship.
The layout of Cusco itself is said to resemble a jaguar, with Qorikancha positioned at its heart, symbolizing the heart of the city. Sacsayhuaman, the second most sacred site, is located in the head of the jaguar. The ability of ancient cultures to plan entire cities with such intricate symbolism is truly astonishing.
Incan architecture is replete with intricate details, and Qorikancha is no exception. The structure is believed to incorporate sacred lines that align with over 300 other revered sites. The sheer complexity and precision of this architectural feat leave one in awe.
Unfortunately, when the Spanish conquistadors arrived in the 16th century, they seized the golden treasures that adorned the walls of Qorikancha. The gold-plated statue of Inti met a similar fate and vanished, likely melted down to extract its precious metals.
Of the plundered gold, approximately 70% was sent to the Vatican, 20% to Spain and the Queen, while the remaining 10% remained with the conquistadors. Please note that these figures might not be entirely accurate, as some details may have been lost in translation during the tour. Nevertheless, a substantial portion of the gold was repatriated to Spain.
In later years, the Spanish conquerors constructed the Catholic Church of Santo Domingo atop the remnants of Qorikancha, naming it Convento de Santo Domingo, thus overlaying their own religious influence on the sacred site
