Saqsaywaman / Xacxaguaman
Cusco, Peru
Sacsayhuaman is a fortress located on the outskirts of Cusco, Peru. The fortress is believed to have been constructed during the Inca Empire, which ruled over a large portion of South America from the early 13th century until the mid-16th century. The fortress is located on a hill overlooking the city of Cusco and was built using large stones that were quarried from nearby mountains.
The fortress is an impressive feat of engineering, with some of the stones used in its construction weighing up to 200 tons. The stones were cut and shaped with remarkable precision, and they were fitted together so tightly that not even a piece of paper could fit between them. The Inca used no mortar or cement to hold the stones in place, relying instead on the precision of their cuts to keep the stones in position.
Sacsayhuaman is made up of three massive walls that zigzag back and forth, forming a series of large terraces. The walls are almost 1,000 feet long and up to 60 feet tall in some places. The entire fortress covers an area of approximately 3,000 acres.
The purpose of Sacsayhuaman is not entirely clear. Some historians believe that it was a military fortress, while others think that it may have been a religious site. It is possible that it served both purposes, as the Inca often combined military and religious functions in their structures.
One of the most impressive features of Sacsayhuaman is the way in which the walls were constructed. The stones used in the lower levels of the walls are much larger than those used in the upper levels, and they are cut in such a way that they fit together perfectly. This technique is known as “ashlar masonry,” and it was used extensively by the Inca.
The fortress was also constructed with a number of defensive features, including a series of small windows that were positioned high up in the walls. These windows allowed defenders to shoot arrows or throw rocks down on attackers, while also providing ventilation for the soldiers who were stationed inside the fortress.
Visit
Contrary to what some local guides will tell you, you will need a tourist ticket which is around 70 Sol or $18 USD. It’s a large site so proper footwear is essential and a walking stick might make the stairs a little easier.
Sacsayhuaman National Archaeological Park, Distrito de Cusco, Province of Cusco, Cusco, Peru
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