Inca Architecture

The main characteristic of Inca architecture is the trapezoidal shape of its openings and also the appearance of massive constructions with horizontal lines, which generates the feeling of a majestic construction, however heavy that neither the false windows, nor aligned niches have managed to cancel.

The main materials used were stones. With rudimentary instruments, masons and architects had the arduous task of more than carrying the stones, cleaning them so that they fit perfectly.

In areas where the climate was drier and the structures were more humble, bricks made of clay (adobes) and more fragile stones were used. There was straw on the roofs, which is why it is not possible to find traces of a possible covering in the ruins of the cities (FAVRE, Henri - The Inca civilization).

Monumentality and propaganda are closely linked. The hierarchy of the Inca society was reflected in its constructions. Architectural work is an expression of power and architecture is a means of advertising that power. Theocentrism, combined with political organization, made the axes of the urban complexes of these peoples align with religious buildings, something extremely common in almost all civilizations.

Coricancha Sun Temple

The most important temple of the Incas, built by Pachacutec, in Cusco, during the imperial phase of the Incas. Pachacutec had it built after the victory over the Chancas in 1438. Within sacred compartments there are other complex chambers designed to worship other gods, such as Viracocha, Illapa or Mama Quilla. But the focus was really on worshiping the sun god: Inti

Historians claim that the indoor area including those with walls, floors and ceilings were covered in gold. Of the six sites that formed the Koricancha, the largest was dedicated to the sun. Inside was a large gold disc representing Viracocha (Sapa Inca and governor of Cusco), on both sides, with two separate symbols representing the sun and the moon.

Sacsayhuamán

The Incas built forts and citadels, as well as the chimus peoples, at strategic points in their vast empire; among them stands out the one built at the doors of Cuzco: Sacsahuamán.

In the highest part, the fortress rises, with a square plan and which still preserves the remains of a circular tower, reinforced and protected by another circular defensive system.

Formed by huge blocks of stones, the fortress is protected on its northern facade by a triple jagged wall that overlaps ascending terraces, communicated by interior staircases. The colossal pieces of the walls were cut and carved in such a way that they fit perfectly, their weight being more than 100 tons.

Suspension Bridges

Another landmark of Inca architecture and engineering is suspension bridges, or suspension bridges. They became fundamental in the expansion of the Inca peoples in South America since, as these people inhabited the mountainous and steep regions of Peru, Bolivia and Ecuador, these bridges became essential to cross the valleys and chasms between a mountain and another.

These bridges, despite the fragile appearance that could break at any time, impressed the Spanish, the first Europeans to discover the Inca civilization, in 1532, because they are extremely resistant to efforts, they are malleable and they resist the forces of nature, such as earthquakes and storms, and, mainly, for overcoming large spans.

Choquequirao

These are buildings on natural platforms which, perfectly fitted stones, resist time. And yet, it must be considered that much more can be excavated on this mountain, rediscovering architectural projects characteristic of the Incas, as only about 30% of the entire citadel is exposed for visitation today. Its excellent state of conservation is due to the fact that it is still a desert place, where no more than 20 tourists per day, explore the city.

The only way to reach Choquequirao is through trekking, somewhat challenging, but possible to conquer. The Choquequirao Trek 4 Days will be quite rewarding for the stunning scenery, ending with a visit to this impressive place.

Machu Picchu

Machu Picchu is the most famous monument of Inca architecture. Even today it is discussed what was its function and why its location. On a plot of land, three areas were defined: one for agricultural activity, a residential area and the last consecrated religious spaces, such as temples and mausoleums. Although several historians and archaeologists estimate that a few hundred people lived there, there is no agreement as to the true role of Machu Picchu. Due to its remote location, it is believed that it may have been a retreat for Inca sovereignty .

Also called “Lost City of the Incas”, Machu Picchu is considered today, as one of the seven new wonders of the world since 2007, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an immeasurable architectural marvel. Built in the 15th century, it consists of stone buildings in ruins (houses, temples, aqueducts, squares and terraces [where they practiced agriculture]), which shows a high degree of architectural and technological knowledge of these people. Until today, Machu Picchu is studied and remains a great mystery, it is not known what the function of this monumental city was.

You can get to Machu Picchu through the Machu Picchu 2 day Tour.

Roads to Machu Picchu

Due to the intense declivity of the local topography, the Incas had to deploy to build roads and bridges.

The alternative found for the roads was the construction in zigzag, with the use of staircases, in very narrow corridors through which people and llamas with loads passed.

The most famous treks to Machu Picchu is the Inca Trail Hike, the 2 Day Inca Trail, and the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu.