Can you imagine discovering an ancestral corner that uniquely blends history and nature? Huchuy Qosqo: Everything You Need to Know will take you on a fascinating journey through this enigmatic archaeological site. From its strategic location to its historical secrets, we offer you a complete guide so you don’t miss any detail of this hidden treasure in the Peruvian Andes.
Huchuy Qosqo is an ancient Inca settlement that, although less known than Machu Picchu, offers an equally enriching experience. Located in the heights of the Sacred Valley, this site combines historical ruins with impressive panoramic views, providing visitors an intimate connection with the Inca legacy and the majesty of the Andes.
Comparison with Other Inca Sites
While Machu Picchu and Choquequirao are widely recognized for their grandeur, Huchuy Qosqo stands out for its serenity and authenticity. This site offers a quieter and less crowded perspective of Inca architecture and culture, allowing visitors to explore its structures and landscapes without the crowds that often accompany other tourist destinations.
Arrival Options
There are several routes to access Huchuy Qosqo, adapting to different levels of experience and available time:
- From Cusco: A hike of approximately 17 kilometers that crosses Andean landscapes and local communities, ideal for trekking enthusiasts.
- From the Sacred Valley: Starting from the town of Lamay, a shorter hike of around 3 hours can be done, ascending along trails offering spectacular views of the valley.
Contents
Location and environment
Meaning of the name
In Quechua, “Huchuy Qosqo” translates to “Little Cusco”, reflecting its importance and similarity to the capital of the Inca Empire. This name highlights the site’s relevance as a microcosm of Cusco’s grandeur.
Altitude above sea level
Located at an altitude of approximately 3,600 meters (11,811 feet), Huchuy Qosqo offers visitors an experience in the heights of the Andes, where clean air and clear views are protagonists.
Geographical location
Located in the province of Calca, this archaeological site is strategically positioned above the town of Lamay, dominating the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Its location allowed for optimal control and surveillance of the surrounding region.
Landscape and Views
From Huchuy Qosqo, visitors can delight in unparalleled panoramic views of the Sacred Valley and the imposing peaks of the Andes Mountain Range. The agricultural terraces and stone structures harmoniously integrate with the natural environment, creating a landscape that inspires awe and admiration.
History and Evolution
Pre-Inca and Inca Era
Before the Inca expansion, the region where Huchuy Qosqo is located was inhabited by the Killke culture, a pre-Inca civilization that left traces in the site’s architecture and organization. These early inhabitants laid the groundwork for later development under Inca rule.
Inca Territorial Expansion
During the height of the Inca Empire, rulers **Yawar Waqaq** and **Wiracocha** expanded their domains towards the Valley of Yucay and Calca, integrating Huchuy Qosqo as a key administrative and military center in the region. This expansion allowed for more effective control of local resources and populations.
Construction of the palace
It is believed that Inca **Wiracocha** ordered the construction of a palace in Huchuy Qosqo for his retirement, choosing this location for its strategic position and privileged views. The palace would have served as a residence and operations center during his final years of life.
Colonial Period
After the arrival of the Spanish, Huchuy Qosqo was incorporated into the colonial system and became part of the Pauqart’ika Hacienda in 1604. This process involved significant changes in the administration and use of the site, adapting it to the new power structures.
Reuse of Structures
Many of the Inca buildings were dismantled and their materials reused in colonial constructions, altering the original appearance of the site. This common practice during the colonial era aimed to utilize existing resources for new buildings.
Ecclesiastical Administration
Huchuy Qosqo was under the administration of the Convento de la Merced until 1814, a period during which various modifications and adaptations were carried out on the pre-existing structures to meet the religious and administrative needs of the time.
Architectural and functional characteristics
Historical Importance
Huchuy Qosqo played a crucial role as an administrative and defensive center in the Sacred Valley, evidenced by its structures and strategic location. Its design reflects the characteristic planning and organization of Inca architecture.
Notable Infrastructure
- Kallankas: Large rectangular halls that served as multifunctional spaces, possibly used for meetings, ceremonies, and accommodation for the Inca elite.
- Qolcas: Storehouses intended for the preservation of food such as corn and other agricultural products, essential for the subsistence and economy of the empire.
- Hydraulic Channeling: An advanced irrigation system