5 archaeological zones of Cusco that cannot be missing from your list

When you think of Cusco, Machu Picchu is probably the first thing that comes to mind. It is also easy to imagine the characteristic cobbled streets and alleys of this city, the charm of the historic center and the blue sky over the mountains. However, this ancient city has a lot to offer. Cusco’s archaeological sites are numerous, each with a fascinating history. If you want to know more, keep reading to learn about the must-see archaeological sites in Cusco.

Archaeological places in Cusco that you cannot miss

1. Tambomachay
2. Pikillaqta Archaeological Park
3. Sacsayhuamán Archaeological Park
4. Chinchero Archaeological Complex
5. Puca Pucara

These places are part of a glorious past and deserve to be visited for their historical and archaeological significance.
If you want to learn more about Inca history and admire the architecture used to build the mighty empires, visit these archaeological sites in Cusco.

1. Tambomachay

Tambomachay is one of the most important archaeological sites in Cusco. This is due to its location on the side of a mountain and next to the river of the same name. It is believed that its function was to worship water, an important element in the Andean worldview. It has waterfalls and two aqueducts that carry and supply water throughout the year.

The best thing about visiting Tambomachay is that it is only 7 kilometers from the center of Cusco, and it is one of the best places for hiking in its natural environment.

2. Pikillaqta Archaeological Park

If you want to learn more about pre-Inca history, the Pikillaqta Archaeological Park is an excellent example of that period. This park was built at the height of the Wari culture and is one of the most famous and well-preserved archaeological sites of ancient cities in Peru.

Surrounded by hills, valleys and lakes, this large archaeological park is an excellent place to spend a day with family or friends. Together with your loved ones, you will be able to admire the unique landscapes and learn more about the population, administrative, religious and military center of the War Empire.

3. Sacsayhuaman Archaeological Park

And if we continue talking about the wonderful archaeological ruins of Cusco, this incredible place will leave you amazed with its buildings and views of the city. The archaeological park of Sacsayhuamán was built between the period of the Incas Pachacutec and Huayna Capac, and from there you can see the capital of the empire.

The park is located just two kilometers from the center of Cusco and consists of many ceremonial buildings and temples. The huge carved rocks that make up the Sacsayhuamán Castle show the great architectural and engineering skills developed by the Incas. In this fortress, the ancestral celebration of Inti Raymi or Fiesta del Sol is held every June 24.

4. Chinchero Archaeological Complex

The Chinchero Archaeological Park is one of the most interesting attractions in this picturesque town, about 30 kilometers northeast of Cusco. These archaeological remains are probably the vestiges of a royal estate of the Inca emperor. In this complex you will also have the opportunity to visit the colonial temple built on Inca foundations and walls.

The ancient city of Chinchero is located in the sacred valley of the Incas. In this attractive and welcoming place, time seems to have stopped. Nor will you be able to stop admiring the chincheras women who weave wool garments according to the traditional technique.

5. Puca Pucara

Puca Pucara is one of the archaeological sites in Cusco that you should not miss visiting. Also known as the Red Fortress, due to the color that the stones of said construction take on at sunset. Apparently this area was destined as a center of administrative and military functions for the Incas.

Its architecture shows a large staircase that can be observed while enjoying the tranquility and fresh air that its location provides. This site is close to other places of interest mentioned above, such as Sacsayhuamán and Tambomachay, which is an ideal complement to a day of history and culture.

These archaeological sites in Cusco are evidence of the impressive millennial heritage of Peru. There are many reasons to visit these historical sites.

If your next destination is the city of Cusco, you cannot miss visiting these places and for this you can stay at the Rojas Inn hotel located in the center of the imperial city of Cusco.

Subscribe to the hotel for free and get a 15% discount on your reservations throughout the year.