Lesser-Known Facts About Raqchi Incan Site
Are you thinking of traveling to Peru this year with your close friends? From the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu, you’ll learn heaps about the indigenous populace of this region and also get to see some incredible views of lakes, lagoons, and ancient monuments.
Among the most famous historical sites in Peru include the Raqchi Incan Site, which is located in Cusco, Peru. Here are some lesser-known facts about this ancient place.
Wiracocha Temple
The Raqchi Incan Site is home to the Temple of Wiracocha, dedicated to the creator deity Wiracocha which stands at approximately 92 meters (302 feet) in length and 25.5 meters (83 feet) in width. The walls of the temple are designed with elaborate and finely crafted stone masonry, illustrating the engineering and architectural skills of the Inca civilization.
Inti Raymi Celebration
Another reason for the cultural significance of the Raqchi Incan Site is that it used to be a ceremonial ground for the Inti Raymi Festival in celebration and thanks to the Sun God, Inti. This celebration involved colorful processions, music, dance, and ritual offerings, and the temple complex at Raqchi played a central role in these celebrations.
Agricultural Terraces
You’ve probably come across the PISAC Inca Site’s agricultural terraces. But this isn’t the only place in Cusco where you’ll encounter them. The Raqchi Incan Site also has many well-preserved agricultural terraces around the temple. These terraces were built by the Incas to optimize agricultural productivity in alpine regions. Their construction and use demonstrate the Incas’ knowledge of irrigation systems and their ability to adapt to difficult environmental conditions.
Spanish Influence
Much like the rest of the Incan Empire, the Raqchi Incan Site was also affected by the Spanish conquest. Spanish settlers partially destroyed the temple complex, including the central wall known as the “Wiracocha Wall”. This destruction was part of their efforts to suppress their beliefs and control the region.
Today, visitors can experience the contrast between original Inca architecture and Spanish-influenced renovations.
Exploring the Raqchi Incan Site is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you should embrace with open arms. And if you’d like to extend your travels to include higher peaks like the Ausangate and the Rainbow Mountains, visit our website to browse through our tours.
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