Piquillacta is an impressive archaeological site located in the department of Cusco, Peru. Built by the Wari culture in the pre-Inca period, Piquillacta is known to be one of the largest urban complexes in the Peruvian Andes. With approximately 700 structures and well-defined streets, this site offers a fascinating insight into the planning and architecture of the Wari culture. To explore the ruins of Piquillacta is to delve into the history of the ancient pre-Inca civilization and marvel at its engineering and urban design.
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History of Piquillacta
Piquillacta is an archaeological site located in the southern valley of Cusco, Peru. It is located approximately 30 kilometers southeast of the city of Cusco, in the province of Quispicanchi. The name Piquillacta comes from Quechua and means “city of fleas”.
Piquillacta was built by the Wari culture, an ancient pre-Inca civilization that flourished between the 7th and 11th centuries AD. The Wari were known for their skill in architecture and urban planning. Piquillacta is one of the best examples of Wari urban planning.
The city of Piquillacta covers an area of approximately 50 hectares and is composed of a series of straight streets, plazas, courtyards and residential structures. The urban layout of Piquillacta is notably different from that of other pre-Columbian cities in the region. While most Inca cities had narrow, labyrinthine streets, Piquillacta has wide streets and a more orderly urban structure.
The city was surrounded by a defensive wall of stone and mud, with access gates at different points. Inside the city, there were around 2,000 rectangular structures that were probably dwellings for the population. Many of these structures were arranged in larger residential complexes, with common courtyards and storage areas.
The exact function of Piquillacta is still the subject of debate among archaeologists. Some theorize that the city may have been an important administrative and ceremonial center for the Wari in the region. Others believe it may have been a center of production and trade, due to its strategic location near important trade routes.
Beginning in the 11th century A.D., the Wari were gradually absorbed by the Inca culture, and Piquillacta was abandoned. After the Spanish conquest in the 16th century, the site was left in ruins and was little visited until more recent times.
Today, Piquillacta is an important archaeological site and attracts visitors interested in exploring the ancient history of the Cusco region. Although much of the city is in ruins, you can still see the streets and structures that once housed the inhabitants of Piquillacta. The site offers a fascinating insight into the architecture and urban planning of the Wari culture.
How to get to Piquillacta
To get to Piquillacta from the city of Cusco, you can follow these directions:
- First, head to the Cusco bus terminal. You can take a cab or a colectivo to get there. Once at the bus terminal, look for a bus or minivan heading to the town of Urcos. Be sure to ask and confirm that the vehicle makes a stop in Piquillacta, as not all buses do.
- Take the bus or minivan to Urcos and let the driver know that you want to get off in Piquillacta. The ride from Cusco to Piquillacta takes about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions. Once you arrive at Piquillacta, you will have to walk approximately 1 kilometer from the road to the archaeological site. There is a road that will take you directly to the ruins.
- If you prefer a more convenient and personalized option, you can also hire a tour or a private transportation service from Cusco to Piquillacta. Many travel agencies in Cusco offer tours that include Piquillacta and other nearby archaeological sites in the South Valley.
- At UKUMARI PERU TRAVEL we organize tours to Piquillacta with pick up from your hotel.
Questions and answers about Piquillacta
Where is Piquillacta located?
Piquillacta is located in the South Valley of Cusco, Peru, approximately 30 kilometers southeast of the city of Cusco.
What culture built Piquillacta?
Piquillacta was built by the Wari culture, an ancient pre-Inca civilization.
What does the name “Piquillacta” mean?
The name Piquillacta comes from Quechua and means “city of fleas”.
What was the function of Piquillacta?
The exact function of Piquillacta is still under debate, but it is believed that it could have been an administrative, ceremonial or even a production and trade center.
What is the size of Piquillacta?
Piquillacta covers an area of approximately 50 hectares.
What is the urban structure of Piquillacta like?
Unlike other pre-Columbian cities, Piquillacta has wide streets and a more orderly urban structure.
How many residential structures are found at Piquillacta?
It is estimated that there are around 2000 rectangular structures at Piquillacta, which were probably dwellings for the population.
When was Piquillacta abandoned?
Piquillacta was abandoned from the 11th century AD, when the Wari were gradually absorbed by the Inca culture.
How can I get to Piquillacta from Cusco?
You can take a bus or minivan from Cusco to Urcos and get off at Piquillacta. You can also hire a tour or private transportation service.
Can I visit Piquillacta today?
Yes, Piquillacta is an important archaeological site and is open to visitors. It is recommended to bring water, sunscreen and comfortable shoes when visiting the site.
What agency offers tours to Piquillacta?
Ukumari Peru Travel is an operating agency in the city of Cusco, and is characterized by organizing tours, the tour to Piquillacta is part of the South Valley tour that not only allows you to visit Piquillacta but also Tipon and the temple of Andahuaylillas.
Book a tour to Piquillacta
In Ukumari Peru Travel we are known for making unique tours in Piquillacta through a shared or private tour please write us to info@ukumariperutravel.com or contact us directly through whatsapp wa.me/51926265603 we will gladly help to make your travel plan…
