Qenqo is an archaeological site located on the outskirts of the city of Cusco, Peru. It was built by the Incas during the 15th century, and is believed to have had several uses, including as a religious and ceremonial center.
Qenqo is composed of several architectural elements, including a series of terraces and plazas, as well as more elaborate structures, such as an amphitheater and a subway labyrinth. One of the most notable features of Qenqo is its large carved rock, which has a series of channels and grooves carved into its surface. It is believed that this rock was used in religious ceremonies and that the channels and grooves were used to channel water and blood during rituals.
Qenqo also features several structures carved into the rock, including niches, stairways and narrow passageways. These structures are believed to have been used in religious ceremonies, although their exact meaning is unclear.
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Today, Qenqo is a popular destination for tourists visiting the Cusco region. Many visitors are impressed by the skill and sophistication of the Inca architecture at the site, and also by the religious and cultural importance Qenqo had for the ancient Incas.
Location of Qenqo
Quenqo is an archaeological site located in the Cusco region of Peru. It is located about 6 kilometers northeast of the city of Cusco, on the side of a hill near the town of San Sebastian. The exact location of Quenqo is in the province of Cusco, in the district of Cusco, within the Sacred Valley of the Incas. It is one of the closest and most accessible archaeological sites to the city of Cusco, and is a popular destination for tourists visiting the region.
Qenqo Attractions
- Sacrificial Hall, is a subway chamber carved in a single rock sacrifices and ritual table.
- Intihuatana, consisting of 2 stone prominences of circular shape used to measure the time, solstices, seasons and equinoxes.
- Amphitheater, a circular area of 55 meters with 19 incomplete niches distributed as an amphitheater.
- Big and small roads, roads leading to Pisac and Cusco.
- Temple of the monkeys, 500 meters from it are constructions of carved rock called Kusillachayoq from which comes its name which has zoomorphic forms.
How to get to Qenqo
To get to Quenqo from the city of Cusco, there are several options available:
- By cab: It is possible to take a cab from Cusco city center to Quenqo. Most cab drivers know the location of the archaeological site and can take you directly there. The trip takes about 20 minutes.
- On a tour: Many tour companies offer guided tours that include a visit to Quenqo. These tours usually include transportation from the hotel or from a meeting point in Cusco city center.
- On foot: If you are willing to walk, it is possible to reach Quenqo on foot from the city of Cusco. The walk is about 6 kilometers and can take about an hour and a half. However, it is important to note that the hike includes a steep climb and can be difficult for some people.
It is worth noting that the entrance to Quenqo is included in the tourist ticket sold in the city of Cusco and also includes entrance to other important archaeological sites in the region.
