Chinchero Archeological Site - a living culture

Chinchero Archeological site has terraces that were designed by the Incas. These terraces are in the form of a trapezoid. On these terraces, they cultivated very nutritious crops such as Quinoa, Kiwicha, and seeds that provided lots of energy.

The archeological site of Chinchero gives visitors a better understanding of how vital this area was to agricultural production. Food storehouses and a highly efficient irrigation system show the genius of this culture that it is difficult to imitate today.

Centro Arqueológico de Chinchero - Cultura viva

The Archeological site of Chinchero

Location:

Chinchero is also known as the city of the Rainbow and it is located 28 km. northwest of Cusco at an altitude of 3,762 m.a.s.l. It is surrounded by snow-capped mountains: Salkantay, Verónica and Soray. It is also close to lagoons: Piuray and Huaypo.

Their ancient traditions have been passed down from generation to generation, so the spirit of the Incas survives here in Chinchero to this day.

The people of Chinchero are proud of their traditions. They work together (Ayllu) and they still dress in their colorful clothes, they keep their devotion to their deities, and they love their neighbors.

Inkayni Peru Tours has designed a perfect tour to enjoy this beautiful town Chinchero and the Sacred Valley: Sacred Valley Tour – Private Service.

Inkayni History information about Chinchero:

Historians say that ruler Inca Túpac Yupanqui had a residence in Chinchero, sometime in the 1480s. He ordered the construction of baths, temples where the town is today. It is said that the ruler was killed here, perhaps poisoned by his mistress, Mama Ocllo. Some believe that Chinchero was a sort of “vacation spot” of Inca Túpac Yupanqui, where the great Inca periodically retreated for relaxation.
The story goes that with the arrival of the Spaniards, Chinchero was burned in 1536 by Manco Inca, in his escape to Vilcabamba, in order not to leave anything for the arriving Spanish conquistadors.
The most outstanding colors in their traditional costumes are red and black with beautiful designs that appear to be made by the Gods, they are so finely made. It is nice to see women braids as well as their lovely red circular hats
Chinchero is a place filled with many traditions. One is the famous system of traditional authorities known as “varayoc” or rod. It symbolizes the highest authority in the town.

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What can you see?

In the archeological site you can find:

This important park reaches an extension of 43 Hectare. It was formerly inhabited by the Killke culture.
There is a collection of architectural spaces: pre-Columbian walls, enclosures, platforms, staircases, and altars
The historic center of Chinchero is also considered unique because it mixes an archaeological complex and a town made from Inca foundations and walls, with a population that has maintained its ancestral customs.
In the main plaza, there is an adobe colonial church, dating from the early seventeenth century. It has been built upon the foundations of an Inca temple or palace. The ceiling and walls are covered in beautiful floral and religious designs. Diego Quispe Tito’s paintings are displayed here.