Pisac Cusco
Location of Pisac: 30 km (60 minutes) northeast of Cusco
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Altitude: 2,950 masl
A picturesque town that is home to a magnificent archaeological site. It is located in the Yucay valley, on the right bank of the Urubamba River. Its name is associated with a partridge-like bird (p’isaqa) that inhabited the area. In every sense, Pisac marks the gateway to the Sacred Valley.
Nestled high in the mountains is Old Pisac, an archaeological complex you can hike up to if you are in good physical condition. Alternatively, if the climb is too demanding, you can take a taxi. It is believed that Pisac served as an Inca citadel and fortress. You can still admire towers and fortified walls with five access gates, including the “Gate of the Serpents”.
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The archaeological complex features buildings of the finest Inca stonework style, which can be divided into three main zones: the sanctuary or Temple of the Sun, the fortress, and the urban sector.
The sanctuary commands the mountain ridge and contains seven rectangular rooms built with exquisitely finished masonry. In the center stands the Intihuatana or sun clock (‘place where the sun is tied’, in Quechua). The building housing it has one straight wall and one semicircular curved wall on the opposite side. The doorway overlooking the Sacred Valley is considered one of the most beautiful in Inca architecture.
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The fortress crowns the second ridge of the mountain, offering commanding panoramic views of the entire surrounding valley. A thick stone wall defends the entrance to this area. The walls rest upon a natural rock foundation about 200 meters long. Furthermore, the stones used in this construction are of astonishing proportions.
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The residential district is formed by 20 dwellings aligned in a semicircle along the mountain ridge. Down the slopes you will find beautiful agricultural terraces. Remarkably, Pisac showcases the greatest variety of terrace construction styles in the region; across its 16 sectors, you can observe at least 14 different construction methods between 2,995 and 3,450 masl.
Modern Pisac
The modern colonial town has a charming main square (Plaza de Armas) shaded by a grand pisonay tree. The artisan market lines the streets on Tuesdays and Thursdays, and every Sunday there is a colorful traditional market. The town has an interesting folk museum on the main square and several historic facades of unique beauty—we recommend strolling along Calle Grau.
Your Experience When Booking: “From Cusco: Sacred Valley Full-Day Tour with Lunch”
What you will do
- Discover the highlights of the Sacred Valley of the Incas
- Learn about the history of the Inca civilization with an expert guide
- Visit a local market and an alpaca wool textile workshop
