Time travel: the history of the Incas in Cusco and Machu Picchu

The history of the Incas is one of the most fascinating of the pre-Columbian history of America. The city of Cusco, located in Peru, is a place full of history and culture, where you can clearly see the influence of the Inca civilization in the architecture, gastronomy and traditions. In this article, we will explore the history of the Incas in Cusco and Machu Picchu, two emblematic places that show the legacy of this great civilization.

The Incas were a pre-Columbian civilization that settled in the Andean region of South America. The Inca Empire extended over much of the Andes, including Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina. Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire and became an important religious and political center.

The city of Cusco was built in the shape of a puma, an animal sacred to the Incas. The city was divided into four main neighborhoods, each representing one of the four seasons of the year. The center of the city was the Temple of the Sun, or Qoricancha, where the Sun God, Inti, was worshipped.

The Temple of the Sun is one of the most important places in the history of the Incas in Cusco. This temple was built in the 15th century and was covered with gold and silver. The temple was sacked and destroyed by the Spanish in the 16th century, but its ruins can still be seen today. Inside the temple, you can see the impressive stone walls, as well as the remains of altars and rooms.

Another important place in the history of the Incas is the citadel of Machu Picchu. This citadel was built in the 15th century on top of a mountain in the Cusco region. The citadel was abandoned after the Spanish conquest and was not rediscovered until the 20th century.

Machu Picchu is one of the most visited places in South America and is considered one of the wonders of the modern world. The citadel is built in a stunning location, surrounded by mountains and valleys. The stone structures at Machu Picchu are impressive, and it is said that the Incas built them without the use of iron or steel tools.

Another important place in the history of the Incas is Ollantaytambo, a fortress city located in the Cusco region. Ollantaytambo was built by the Incas in the 15th century and was used as a military fortress and religious center. The city still retains many of its original structures, including temples, plazas and storage buildings.

In conclusion, the history of the Incas in Cusco and Machu Picchu is fascinating and full of mystery. These iconic sites showcase the legacy of this great civilization, which left an indelible mark on the history of Peru and South America in general. If you plan to visit Cusco, be sure to explore these places and immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Incas.