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The Meaning of “Qenqo”
The name Qenqo comes from the Quechua word Q’inqu, meaning “labyrinth,” referring to the intricate underground passages and the zigzagging stone channels throughout the site. This name was assigned during the colonial period, as the original Incan name has been lost over time.
Intricate Underground Galleries
The complex is located on the current Socorro hill, covering about 3,500 square meters. Its rocky ground allowed for the construction of mysterious underground galleries leading to different chambers and ceremonial rooms. These underground passages, known as chincanas, are also found at other important Incan sites, fueling legends of secret tunnels connecting Qenqo with other temples like Coricancha.
Two Paths, Two Stories
Access to Qenqo splits into two main routes: the large path and the small path. The large path descends to the foot of Socorro hill and connects with other archaeological sites, while the small path crosses directly along the hillside. Qenqo Grande preserves most of the structures, whereas Qenqo Chico has suffered near-total destruction, with only wall and foundation remains.
The Enigmatic Amphitheater
One of the most iconic sectors of the complex is its amphitheater, a wide semicircular platform 55 meters across, flanked by unfinished niches. At its center stands a massive, irregularly-shaped monolith. Although referred to as an amphitheater, its purpose remains a mystery: researchers believe it may have been a ceremonial center where public rituals were held.
Offering Spaces: Blood and Chicha
Archaeological evidence suggests that offerings of llama or alpaca blood, as well as chicha—a fermented corn drink—were made at Qenqo. The Incas carved a series of serpentine channels, likely intended to carry these sacred liquids to ritual chambers located underground.
The Intihuatana of Qenqo
Similar to the famous Intihuatana of Machu Picchu, Qenqo features a stone structure believed to have served as an astronomical observatory. From this point, it was possible to calculate the position of the sun and seasonal changes, crucial for the Incan agricultural calendar. The worship of the sun, moon, and stars was deeply intertwined with the ceremonial practices of this ancient culture.
The Temple of the Monkeys: Cusillachayoc
Near Qenqo lies Cusillachayoc, known as the Temple of the Monkeys. This site, carved in rock, displays reliefs of animals such as monkeys and snakes, although many figures have been eroded over time. It is believed that beyond its artistic value, the site had spiritual significance related to the cycles of nature.
The Sacrifice Room
At the heart of the underground galleries lies the Sacrifice Room, an impressive rock-carved chamber where, according to some hypotheses, rituals involving human and animal sacrifices, known as capacocha, were performed. This remarkably well-preserved room features meticulously crafted floors, walls, and ceilings, showcasing the skill of the ancient Incan architects.
Useful Information for Visiting Qenqo
- Access: Easily reachable from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas in about 15 minutes by bus or tourist vehicle. It is also possible to walk there in approximately 50 minutes.
- Entrance: A Cusco Tourist Ticket must be purchased to enter the site.
- Opening Hours: Open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.