The Ancient Secrets of Maukallaqta: Exploring the Hidden Heritage of Espinar

When visiting Maukallaqta, you immerse yourself in an environment full of history and mysticism. The site is surrounded by imposing mountains and vast Andean landscapes. In this blog, we will explain how you can reach and visit the site.

History of Maukallaqta

Pre-Inca Era

The first ayllus of the Kana nation consisted of several human settlements such as Pichiwas, Koporaquis, Languis, Qewes Pampamarkas, Ayawiras, Choquepiqllo, and Cavanas, among others. After the disappearance of the Wari culture, the Coporaque territory and other ethnicities were incorporated into the regional state of Kana, occupied by the Kanas, an Aymara ethnic group from the highlands, specifically from Qolla, Umachiri (Ayaviri). Their language was Aymara or Haqueanu.

The Kanas had their administrative center in Hatun K’ana, now Kanamaraca in Alto Pichigua, and their ceremonial center in Coporaque, called Hanccoccahua, now Maukallaqta. The Kana territories had influences from the Wari and Tiahuanaco, with the Wari being more elitist and warlike and the Tiahuanaco more ideological and peaceful. This is reflected in their architectural constructions.

Inca Era

During the Inca era, the Kana nation integrated into the Tahuantinsuyo peacefully through an Inca confederation, which the Inca persuaded after subduing the Qanchis. The Coporaque territory was subjected to the rule of the son of the Sun god, with Pirwa Paqari Manco believed to be the first Inca governor in the Kana territory.

Colonial Era

During the colonial period, the lands of Maukallaqta became part of the corregimiento under Spanish rule. The curatos of Coporaque, Pichigua, Yauri, and Ankonkagua belonged to the Canas de Orcosuyo corregimiento. In 1536, the indigenous people killed the encomendero Diego Rodrigues Alemosin due to abuses against them, leading to the migration of Maukallaqta's population to the Coporaque area.

Maukallaqta Today

Today, Maukallaqta is one of the lesser-known tourist attractions of Espinar and is often confused with the archaeological site of Maukallaqta in Paruro. This place has structures that withstand the passage of time and continue to fascinate archaeologists and visitors alike. It is characterized by beautiful chullpas with Q-style architectural patterns.

Meaning of Maukallaqta

Maukallaqta comes from two Quechua words: mawk’a, meaning "ancient," and llaqta, meaning "town," "city," or "nation." Translated together into Spanish, it means "ancient town" or "old city."

Location

This archaeological site is located 26 km from the capital of Yauri, southeast of the Manturca community in the Coporaque district, Espinar province, at approximately 4,000 meters above sea level, within the Viginiyoc canyon. It lies in a valley surrounded by mountains that are part of the Andes Mountain Range. The landscape is typically Andean, with extensive plains and rocky elevations that challenge the sky.

Weather

The climate in Maukallaqta is predominantly cold and dry, with daytime temperatures reaching a maximum of 24 ºC and nighttime temperatures dropping significantly to as low as -20ºC. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to September, when the weather is more pleasant, and access routes are less complicated.

Flora

The region hosts a variety of flora adapted to high altitudes, including Andean grasses and hardy shrubs such as Ichu (Stipa obtusa), Chachacomo (Escallonia resinosa), Kiswar (Buddleja incana), Thola (Baccharis dracunculifolia), Chillca (Baccharis latifolia), Llaulli (Barnadesia horrida), and the Puya Raimondi (Puya titanca).

Fauna

In terms of fauna, you may observe vizcachas (Lagidium viscacia), Andean foxes (Lycalopex culpaeus), pumas (Puma concolor), tarucas (Hippocamelus antisensis), condors (Vultur gryphus), wild guinea pigs (Cavia tschudii), partridges (Nothoprocta pentlandi), Andean woodpeckers (Colaptes rupicola), canasteros (Asthenes), flamingos (Phoenicoparrus andinus), and gallaretas (Fulica), among other species.

Important Sites in Maukallaqta Espinar

The Chullpas of Maukallaqta

The chullpas are funerary centers used to bury the nobles of the local Hatunkana curacas elite. They are situated throughout the site in the form of towers of different sizes. A chullpa located in the central plaza of the Maukallaqta archaeological site stands out for its fine architecture and is constructed with sillar stone pieces joined with mud mortar. These circular constructions feature an entrance and small windows. The funerary architecture of Maukallaqta represents the high degree of religious identification and worship of the dead.

Pucaraq’epa

Located on a slope north of the archaeological complex, it contains 40 circular enclosures. The larger ones correspond to dwellings, while the smaller ones are chullpas.

Plazapampa

This sector is situated northeast of the archaeological site. It is characterized by a large plaza. Additionally, there are circular enclosures, with the most notable being a rectangular kallanka with access doors and 12 trapezoidal niches. Nearby is a rectangular structure believed to be a colonial-era Christian chapel.

Atoqotambo

Situated east of the archaeological complex, it comprises five rectangular and quadrangular enclosures. These enclosures probably served as watchtowers due to their location in an area with great visual dominance.

Yuraqtorriyoc

Located southeast of the archaeological complex, it is characterized by a cylindrical structure with a circular base, corresponding to a chullpa or funerary enclosure approximately 5 meters high, surrounded by circular enclosures around the plaza.

Pukara

Located in the central part of the Maukallaqta archaeological complex, it is protected by a perimeter wall with a door for access. The lintel and steps leading to a sacred space for rituals and funerals can be observed, serving as the cemetery for this site.

Nearby Points of Interest

Colonial Bridge Machupuente

Located in the central village of Puente Central, it is built over the Apurimac River with carved sillar stone joined with lime mortar. It is about 15 meters long and 3.70 meters wide, considered the first bridge of the colonial era.

Paris Pukara

An archaeological site in the Coporaque district, consisting of three sectors: A, B, and C. All these sectors comprise circular and rectangular enclosures. Sector A also has ovoidal constructions, probably corresponding to pre-Inca and Inca occupations.

Tres Cañones

The Tres Cañones of Espinar represent a natural wonder sculpted over millennia by water and wind erosion. This site consists of three geological stone cliffs over 80 meters high, accompanied by impressive local biodiversity.

Recommendations on How to Get to Maukallaqta Espinar

Transportation Options

• Bus from Cusco to Espinar: You can take a bus from the Huayropata Terminal offering services to Espinar. The trip takes 4 to 5 hours. Once in Espinar, you can take a taxi to the Maukallaqta archaeological site.
• From Espinar to Maukallaqta: In Espinar, you can hire a taxi to the Maukallaqta archaeological site, about 26 kilometers away, taking approximately one hour.
• Organized Tour to Maukallaqta: Agencies in Cusco offer tours that include Maukallaqta. This is the most recommended option if you prefer a package that includes specialized guides, transportation, and meals, ensuring the best experience without any inconveniences.

Travel Tips

• Warm clothing such as hats, scarves, and gloves for the cold.
• Comfortable and appropriate shoes, preferably trekking shoes.
• Wide-brimmed hats or sun hats for sun protection.
• An impermeable jacket or poncho for unexpected weather changes.
• A trekking stick will be very useful for support during the hike.
• Don't forget to bring a good camera or camcorder to capture the beauty of the landscape.

Must-Try Dishes in Espinar

• Lechon de Cordero: The flagship dish of the entire Espinar province, especially Coporaque district, with an incomparable flavor.
• P’hata: Consists of popping wheat, barley, or quinoa by cooking, a daily household food.
• Chuñolawa: The traditional dish of Coporaque and Espinar, a variation of chuñochaque, based on meat and wheat or sometimes made with tripe instead of meat.
• Qoqawa: A snack or lunch made from three ingredients: meat, potatoes, and chuño.

Hotel Recommendations in Espinar

Notable Hotels

Find comfort and hospitality in hotels known for their quality and prime locations.

• Espinar Plaza Hotel: A three-star hotel with a fitness center, common room, and restaurant. It offers concierge services and a casino with a panoramic view of the city and comfortable rooms.
  Address: Avenida San Martin #331, Espinar 08000 Peru
• Hotel Don Bartolo: A three-star hotel with a beautiful terrace and a restaurant.
  Address: Jiron Arica, Espinar Peru.
• Hotel Segovia de Guadarrama: Offers affordable rooms and basic services, perfect for your stay in Espinar.
  Address: Plaza de Armas S/N, Frente a la Municipalidad, Espinar Peru

Restaurant Recommendations in Espinar

Discover the Culinary Richness of Espinar

• Kokawa: An excellent restaurant for meat lovers, offering Peruvian and South American food. Ideal for delicious grills.
  Address: Avenida San Martin 102, Espinar 08300 Peru
  Phone: +51 984 209 092
• Restaurant Machu Picchu: Offers Peruvian and international food in pleasant environments with delicious dishes.
  Address: Avenida Tintaya 106, Espinar 08300 Peru
  Phone: +51 54 661441
• Restaurante El Asador offers all types of Peruvian food, specializing in grills and South American to German dishes. It has comfortable spaces to enjoy rich meals.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does "Maukallaqta" mean and why is it important?

"Maukallaqta" means "ancient town" in Quechua. This site is important as it is believed to have been a ceremonial and administrative center during the Inca period. Its architecture and layout provide valuable insights into the ceremonial practices and social organization of that era.

Where is it located and how can I get to Maukallaqta?

Maukallaqta is located in the Espinar province in the Cusco region. To reach the site, travel from Cusco to Espinar by road, a journey that can take around six hours. From Espinar, you can access the site by a hike or a 4x4 vehicle.

What structures can be seen in Maukallaqta?

In Maukallaqta, you can admire the beautiful chullpas, large kallancas, circular and rectangular enclosures, ceremonial plazas, and other buildings reflecting typical Inca architecture, along with unique landscapes in the region.

What is the best time to visit Maukallaqta?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from April to October, when the weather is more pleasant and there is less rain, making it easier to explore the mountainous terrain and outdoor structures.

Are there local guides available to show the site?

Yes, local guides deeply knowledgeable about the site's history and archaeology are available. Hiring one enriches the visitor's experience and supports the local economy.

Is it necessary to hire a guide to visit Maukallaqta?

Yes, it is recommended to have a specialized guide who can provide detailed information about the history and significance of the sites. You can hire one through a travel agency as there are no local guides at the site.

What safety measures should be taken when visiting Maukallaqta?

Besides acclimatization, it is important to wear appropriate clothing and sun protection due to the intense sun at high altitudes, carry enough water and snacks, and visit in a group with a first aid kit, given Maukallaqta's remote location.

Are there any festivals or cultural events held at Maukallaqta?

Although Maukallaqta is not the center of major festivals, a folkloric dance festival takes place in June, featuring beautiful traditional costumes that celebrate cultural identity and history.

Is there an entrance fee, and are there facilities on-site?

There is no entrance fee as the site is not included in the tourist ticket; entry is free. There are no local guides, sanitary facilities, or other tourist services available.

Can additional activities be done around Maukallaqta?

The region offers opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and exploring other lesser-known archaeological sites or attractive centers, providing an excellent way to experience the natural beauty and history of the area.

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