The name Pachacútec comes from the Quechua Pacha (earth, world) and Kutiq (transformer, renovator). Its meaning is **”He who transforms the earth” or “The world reformer”**, a title that reflected his role as the great leader and visionary of the Inca Empire.
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His role in the Inca era
Pachacútec was the **ninth ruler of the Inca Empire** and is considered the most important of all. Under his leadership (1438-1471 AD), the Incas grew from a small kingdom in Cusco to become a vast empire, the **Tahuantinsuyo**, which encompassed territories in present-day Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, and Colombia.
What is he known for?
Pachacútec is known for:
- Expanding the Inca Empire through conquests and military strategies.
- Reorganizing the administration of the Tahuantinsuyo with an efficient system of government.
- Promoting the construction of monumental works such as Machu Picchu.
- Implementing the Inca road system (Qhapaq Ñan), facilitating communication and control of the empire.
- Consolidating the Inca religion, strengthening the worship of the god Inti (Sun).
Works and constructions in Cusco
Pachacútec transformed Cusco into an imperial city, making it the center of the Tahuantinsuyo. His main works were:
- Redesigning the city of Cusco in the shape of a puma, a symbol of power.
- Construction of the Coricancha, the Temple of the Sun, the most sacred in the empire.
- Fortress of Sacsayhuamán, an impressive defensive and ceremonial complex.
- Canals and aqueducts, which improved the irrigation and water supply system in the city.
Monuments in his honor in Cusco
In the city of Cusco, there are several monuments dedicated to Pachacútec:
- Monument to Pachacútec, a large bronze statue located in Plaza del Óvalo Pachacútec, south of the historic center.
Built in 1991, it is a cylindrical base building with nine levels and a height of 22.40 meters, serving as a pedestal for the 11.50 meter high bronze statue.
- Representations in the Coricancha and Sacsayhuamán, where images and sculptures inspired by his legacy can be seen.
- Museo Inka (Inca Museum), where objects and narratives about his reign are exhibited.