Ollantaytambo
Ollantaytambo is one of the most important towns in the sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco. It is the only place that preserves its ancient Inca urban design. Because it is a mandatory step before reaching Machu Picchu it is very visited. However, "Ollanta" has its own charms.
The town of Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley
It is presumed that it was the Inca Pachacutec (1438-1471) who had Ollantaytambo built. Today, this picturesque town whose stone streets preserve Inca architecture combined with colonial temples and squares, is the route taken by tourists visiting Machu Picchu.
Likewise, Ollantaytambo is known as the "Living Inca City". Its inhabitants maintain some of the traditions inherited by their Inca ancestors. Its main tourist attraction is the archaeological site (also called a fortress) located next to the town.
Currently the town is conditioned to receive tourism. Around the Plaza de Armas de Ollantaytambo and in the town there are restaurants, hotels, bars, cafes and other services that invite the visitor.
Where is Ollantaytambo located?
Ollantaytambo is at the opposite end to the town Písac (80 kilometers from the city of Cusco). It is reached by the Chinchero - Urubamba highway or by train (km 68). The town is 2,700 meters above sea level (masl) and houses some of the most amazing Inca buildings in Peru.
What does Ollantaytambo mean?
The word Ollantaytambo derives from the Quechua word "Ulla-nta-wi" which means "place to see down". According to Quechua culture, the name comes from "Ollanta", the name of an Inca captain who starred in the Quechua drama "Ollantay".
Ollantaytambo archaeological complex
The Ollantaytambo archaeological complex was a military, religious and agricultural center. This fabulous architectural setting is interesting for the size, originality and detail of its structures.
What to see at the Ollantaytambo archaeological site?
Ollantaytambo has beautiful Inca lithic structures. Due to the fact that it was the scene of hard battles between rebel Incas and Spaniards in 1537, many of its buildings are damaged or destroyed. Even so, the enclosure continues to preserve the magic and history of many centuries ago.
- The Royal House of the Sun The Real Casa del Sol is made up of 17 very large overlapping terraces facing the town's main square.
- Fort Choqana Choqana is a Quechua word that means "where it is knocked down or thrown". It is located 2 kilometers from Ollantaytambo. It served as an administrative center, checkpoint and fort.
- Plaza Mañay Raqay or 'K'uychipunku' Its name means in Quechua "Plaza de las requests". It is located on the right side of the Patakancha stream next to the entrance gate of the archaeological site. Its walls have many openings that are believed to be doors.
- The temple of the Sun This impressive 6-piece monolith is almost completely destroyed. However, it is still one of the most beautiful pieces in Ollantaytambo. The 6 huge rocks that make up the western wall dock with incredible accuracy.
- The Monumental Cover and the Enclosure of the 10 Niches This construction is located at the end of the upper group of platforms. Its walls are made up of two very precisely polished stone canvases. This enclosure was damaged during the Spanish conquest. It is one of the most popular in "Ollanta".
- The Ñusta Bath It is a beautiful source with 3 sculpted water outlets inside. They are known as liturgical sources and could be found in the main cities of the Inca Empire.
- The Platforms In Ollantaytambo we find groups of parallel platforms. They have parameters inclined towards the hill with steps that are embedded in its walls. They can be seen at a great distance.
#DidYouKnow
The Ollantaytambo archaeological complex space is co-founded with the town since many Inca canals are still in use.