Tipon is an archaeological site located in the Cusco region of Peru. It is known for its impressive agricultural terraces and irrigation systems, which reflect the ingenuity and skill of the Inca culture in water management and agriculture. Tipon is considered a sacred and ceremonial site, and offers visitors the opportunity to explore its extensive terraces, canals and water sources. In addition to its historical and archaeological value, the natural landscape surrounding Tipon is spectacular, providing a unique experience for those who visit the site.
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Tipon history
Tipon’s history dates back to the Inca period, during the 15th century. It was built and used by the Incas as a ceremonial and agricultural center. It is believed that Tipon was an important place of worship and adoration, where rituals related to agriculture and water, considered sacred elements in the Inca culture, were performed.
Tipon’s most outstanding features are its impressive agricultural terraces and its advanced irrigation system. The terraces were built on the mountain slopes and allowed efficient use of the topography for the cultivation of a variety of agricultural products. The irrigation system includes canals, irrigation ditches and water sources that distributed the vital liquid throughout the site, demonstrating the knowledge and mastery of the Incas in water management.
During the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, many Inca sites, including Tipon, suffered damage and destruction. However, despite these historical events, many of Tipon’s structures and irrigation systems have survived to this day, allowing us to appreciate and study the engineering and legacy of the Incas.
Tipon what to find
At the Tipon archaeological site, visitors can find a number of impressive structures and features. Here are a few things that can be found at Tipon:
- Agricultural terraces: Tipón is known for its extensive agricultural terraces built on the mountain slopes. These terraces allowed for the cultivation of a variety of agricultural products and demonstrate the engineering and agricultural knowledge of the Incas.
- Irrigation system: One of the highlights of Tipon is its advanced irrigation system. Canals, irrigation ditches and springs can be found distributing water throughout the site, allowing for the irrigation of terraces and ensuring water supply for agriculture.
- Temples and enclosures: Tipon has several temples and ceremonial enclosures. These structures show the religious and ceremonial importance of the site in the Inca culture.
- Aqueducts and water canals: Tipon’s aqueducts and water canals are impressive. These structures demonstrate the Incas’ ability to manage and control the flow of water, ensuring a constant supply for agricultural activities.
- Drainage system: Tipón also has a well-developed drainage system. Canals and drains can be found that allowed the evacuation of water and prevented excess humidity in the terraces and structures.
- Natural landscape: In addition to the archaeological structures, the natural environment surrounding Tipón is impressive. The site is located in a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains, which provides a spectacular backdrop for the visit.
How to get to Tipon
To get to Tipon from the city of Cusco, you can follow these instructions:
- First, head to the center of Cusco, where the Plaza de Armas is located.
- From the Plaza de Armas, walk south along Mantas street until you reach Avenida El Sol. There you will find several tourist and transportation agencies.
- You can choose to take a cab or minibus from Avenida El Sol. Be sure to ask if they go to Tipon before boarding.
- If you prefer to use public transportation, you can look for a minibus or a combi with destination “Tipon” or “Oropesa”. These vehicles will take you to the archaeological site of Tipon.
- The distance between Cusco and Tipon is approximately 15 km, and the travel time is about 30 minutes by car.
Remember that you can also hire a guided tour that includes a visit to Tipon. This will allow you to have a more complete experience and get additional information about the archaeological site. In Ukumari Peru Travel we take care of all the organization of this tour in group or private at the best prices in the market.
Questions and answers about Tipon Cusco
Where is Tipon located?
Tipon is located in the Cusco region of Peru, about 15 kilometers southeast of the city of Cusco.
What is the importance of Tipon in the Inca culture?
Tipon was a place of religious and agricultural importance in the Inca culture. Its agricultural terraces and irrigation systems show the knowledge and skill of the Incas in water management and agriculture.
When was Tipón built?
It is believed that Tipon was built during the Inca period, approximately in the 15th century.
What types of crops were grown on the Tipón terraces?
A variety of agricultural products were grown on the Tipón terraces, including corn, potatoes, quinoa and various types of vegetables.
What is the most prominent structure at Tipón?
The most outstanding structure at Tipón is its system of agricultural terraces, which extend up the mountain slopes and form an impressive stepped view.
Are there any water sources in Tipón?
Yes, in Tipón there are several water sources that are part of the irrigation system. These springs supplied water to the terraces and canals of the site.
Is it possible to tour Tipón on your own or is a guide required?
It is possible to tour Tipón on your own. However, having a guide can provide a better understanding of the site and its history.
How much time is recommended to spend visiting Tipón?
It is recommended to spend at least one hour touring the Tipón site, although the time may vary depending on the visitor’s interest and curiosity.
What other attractions are located near Tipón?
Near Tipon are other important archaeological sites such as Pikillacta and Andahuaylillas, which can also be visited on the same excursion.
What are the opening hours and entrance fees to Tipón?
The entrance hours are from 7 am to 5 pm and the entrance fees to Tipon have a price of 70 nuevos soles for foreign tourists and 40 soles for national tourists. This admission includes the visit to several places, there is not a single ticket for the place.
