THE BEAUTIFUL TEMPLE OF THE SUN, QORICANCHA!
The Temple of the Sun, also known as Qoricancha, is one of the most fascinating places to visit in Cusco, Peru. This stone construction dates back to Inca times and is an impressive testament to the skill and advanced engineering of this ancient civilization. In this article, we will talk about the history of Qoricancha and its cultural importance, as well as provide information on how to visit this tourist site.
History of the Temple of the Sun – Qoricancha
The Qoricancha was one of the most important temples of the Inca Empire, dedicated to the worship of the sun. It is said that the temple was full of objects made of gold, such as statues, altars, and walls covered with this precious metal. There was also a sacred garden with plants and flowers that represented the Andean flora and were believed to have medicinal properties.
However, the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors in the 16th century drastically changed the fate of the temple. The Spaniards stripped Qoricancha of all its gold and converted it into a Catholic church. Part of the original temple was destroyed, and much of the structure was remodeled and enlarged to reflect the European architecture of the time.
Importancia cultural del Templo del Sol – Qoricancha
The Qoricancha is a living testimony of the rich history and culture of the Incas. The construction is an impressive display of the skill and advanced engineering of this ancient civilization. The temple was built on a sacred site for the Incas, and was believed to be located at the center of the universe.
The combination of Inca and Spanish architecture reflects the influence of both cultures and the complexity of Cusco’s history. In addition, the remains of the walls and original gold objects on display in the temple museum allow visitors to immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of the Incas.
Best time to visit the Temple of the Sun – Qoricancha
Qoricancha is located in the historic center of Cusco and is easily accessible on foot or by cab. There is an entrance fee to visit the temple and museum. Visitors can explore the structure, learn about its history and enjoy the exhibits in the museum.
It is advisable to visit the temple with a tour guide to get a better understanding of the history and culture of Qoricancha. It is also important to keep in mind that, as with any tourist site, the established rules and regulations must be respected in order to maintain the preservation of the structure.
Mejor época para visitar el Templo del Sol – Qoricancha
Cusco is a popular tourist destination all year round, but the best time to visit the Temple of the Sun – Qoricancha is during the dry season from May to September. During these months, the weather is pleasant and there is less rain so the visit is much more enjoyable and comfortable! Edit