Sacsayhuaman or Saqsaywaman is an archaeological site located on the outskirts of the city of Cusco, Peru. It was built during the Inca Empire and is believed to have been used as a military fortress and religious center. The site is famous for its massive stone walls, some of which are up to 9 meters high and weigh more than 300 tons. The stone blocks fit together with impressive precision, without the use of mortar, which has led to some theories that the ancient Incas had mastered advanced construction techniques. Sacsayhuaman is considered one of the most impressive examples of Inca architecture, and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Today, it is a major tourist destination in Peru, and many people visit the site to admire its impressive architecture and learn more about the history of the Incas.
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Location of Sacsayhuaman
The archaeological site of Sacsayhuaman is located 2 kilometers north of the city of Cusco, Peru at an altitude of 3700 meters above sea level, has an area of 3000 hectares which corresponds to the entire archaeological park of Sacsayhuaman.
Meaning of Sacsayhuaman
The name Sacsayhuaman comes from the Quechua language, which was the language spoken by the Incas and other indigenous groups of the Peruvian Andes. The exact meaning of the name is not clear, but it is believed that it could have several interpretations.
- One of the possible interpretations is “Sacsayhuaman” means place where the falcon is satiated. This interpretation is based on the belief that the site was built in honor of the falcon, which was a sacred animal to the Incas and was associated with the sun and the sky.
- Another possible interpretation is that “Sacsayhuaman” means place where the earth is satisfied. This interpretation is based on the idea that the site was built as a tribute to Pachamama, the goddess of the earth and fertility.
- In any case, the name Sacsayhuaman reflects the religious and cultural importance the site had for the Incas, and is one more example of the rich cultural heritage they left in Peru and throughout the Andean region.
Architecture of Sacsayhuaman
- The architecture of Sacsayhuaman is impressive and shows the high level of skill and knowledge in construction of the ancient Incas. The site is located on a hill on the outskirts of the city of Cusco, and its construction dates back to the 15th century. The walls of Sacsayhuaman are built with large stone blocks that fit together precisely and without the use of mortar.
- The stone blocks were cut and transported from nearby quarries by hand, without the use of iron tools. Many of the stones used in the construction weigh several tons, and their transportation and placement must have been a monumental feat.
- The walls of Sacsayhuaman have several distinctive characteristics. For example, some of the stone blocks have jagged edges, allowing them to fit more closely together. In addition, some of the walls have a zigzagging shape, which gives them greater stability and strength. The site also features a series of terraces and courtyards, as well as several smaller structures, such as towers and storehouses. Sacsayhuaman is also believed to have had a network of water channels, which allowed water to flow throughout the site.
Sacsayhuaman Attractions
- The towers, were at the top of the walls can only appreciate the foundations of Muyucmarca, Paucarmarca and Sallaqmarca.
- Enclosures, are rooms very close to the towers are connected by trapezoidal doors.
- Walls or Baluartes, are walls that are zigzag shaped in 3 levels, with large stone weighing up to 128 tons.
- The gates are located in the central part of each wall called Ajawanapunku, T’iopunku and Wiracochapunku.
- Suchuna, are natural volcanic rock formations located in front of the walls in the upper part.
- Throne of the Inca, a symmetrically polished seat-shaped structure of great denomination.
- Chincanas, are tunnels or subway caves one of them measures 15 meters and the other is closed is believed to lead to the Coricancha.
How to get to Sacsayhuaman
To get to Sacsayhuaman, one of the most important archaeological sites in Cusco, there are several options:
- On foot: If you are in the historic center of Cusco, you can walk to Sacsayhuaman, as it is about a 20-25 minute walk. It is a steep walk, but with beautiful views of the city.
- By cab: Another option is to take a cab from the historic center of Cusco to Sacsayhuaman. The price of the cab may vary depending on the negotiation with the driver.
- By public transport: It is possible to take a minibus from the Plaza San Francisco in the historic center of Cusco to Sacsayhuaman. The fare is quite cheap, but keep in mind that the minibuses are usually very crowded and are not always very comfortable.
- By tour: There are also tourist tours that include a visit to Sacsayhuaman, as well as to other important tourist sites in Cusco. These tours usually include transportation from the historic center of Cusco and a tour guide.
It is important to keep in mind that the entrance to Sacsayhuaman requires a Cusco tourist ticket that includes the visit to other important tourist sites in the city. In addition, it is recommended to visit Sacsayhuaman in the morning to avoid the crowds and the strong midday sun.
Questions and answers about Sacsayhuaman
How much does it cost to visit Sacsayhuaman?
The cost of visiting Sacsayhuaman is the tourist ticket, which costs s/ 70 soles (20 USD) for foreign tourists and s/ 40 soles (12 USD) for domestic tourists.
Is Sacsayhuaman open all year 2023?
Yes, this archaeological site of Sacsayhuaman is open all year round.
Is there an entrance ticket only to visit Sacsayhuaman?
There is no exclusive entrance ticket for Sacsayhuaman, so when you buy your ticket, you will also buy tickets for other sites such as Qenqo, Pucapucara and Tambomachay that belong to the Sacsayhuaman archaeological park.
Can I get tour guides in Sacsayhuaman?
Yes, at the entrance of Sacsayhuaman there are tour guides that offer their services, their prices vary from 15 soles to more.
Can I walk to Sacsayhuaman from Cusco’s main square?
Yes, the walk takes approximately 40 minutes.
What tour includes Sacsayhuaman?
The City Tour allows you to visit Sacsayhuaman and also the sites of Qenqo, Pucapucara and Tambomachay. The price starts at 20 dollars.
