Qenqo Archaeological Site in Cusco.

Qenqo is another Inca site located just outside of Cusco. It is believed to have been a religious site, as it contains several strange rock formations that may have been used for ceremonial purposes. Visitors can explore the ruins and hike to the top of the nearby hill for a great view of Cusco.

Qenqo sacrificial room

What is Qenqo?.

Qenqo Inca site is a ceremonial center and archaeological site located in the Cusco Region of Peru. The site consists of a series of terraces, plazas, and temples built by the Inca civilization. Qenqo is believed to have been used for religious and ceremonial purposes and astronomical observations. The main feature of Qenqo is its large central plaza, surrounded by walls and windows. The central plaza is thought to have been used for ceremonies and rituals, while the smaller plazas and temples were used for astronomical observations.

The Labyrinths.

Qenqo is home to underground caves and tunnels, likely used for storage or burial chambers. The labyrinthine structure is interconnected chambers and passageways. The walls of the chambers are decorated with relief carvings. Many of these depict scenes from Inca mythology and religion.

The exact function of Qenqo is still not fully understood. However, it is thought to have been used for ceremonial and religious purposes. It may have served as a place where important Inca rituals were carried out or as a burial site for elite members of society.

Location.

Qenqo is about 3 kilometers northeast of Cusco with an altitude of 3580 m (11745 ft).

History.

Qenqo was probably built in the late 15th century, during the reign of the Inca emperor Pachacuti. It is thought to have been used for ritual ceremonies involving the worship of nature deities. Qenqo may also have been used as a place of burial for high-ranking members of Inca society.

The site was studied by archaeologists in the early 20th century and has since been protected. Qenqo is now open to the public and is one of Cusco’s most popular tourist attractions.

The exact purpose of Qenqo is unknown, but it is thought to have served as a ceremonial center for the Inca. Qenqo may also have been used as a burial ground, as numerous human bones have been found at the site.

Weather.

The weather in Quenqo is variable but generally mild. The rainy season runs from October to March, with most rain falling in December and January. The average temperature in Quenqo is 20°C (68°F), though it can get colder at night and hotter during the day.

The dry season runs from April to September, and sunny days are expected. However, rain can take place at any time during the year. The weather in the Andes is unpredictable.

What does the word “Qenqo” mean?.

The word “Qenqo” means “labyrinth” or “spiral.” This is appropriate for the archaeological site because it is full of winding passages and small chambers. It is believed that this was once a place for shamanic rituals and ceremonies.

The mystery of the ruins.

The Qenqo ruins are a mysterious and little-known archaeological site. The site consists of a series of large stone blocks, some of which are carved with strange symbols. The site was believed to be used for ceremonial or religious purposes, but its exact purpose is unknown.

The mystery of the Qenqo ruins has puzzled archaeologists for years. Some believe that the carvings on the stones may hold clues to the site’s purpose, but no one has been able to decipher them. The Qenqo ruins remain an enigma, and their secrets continue to elude us.

What are the features?.

The main features of Qenqo are the terraces, the stone platform, and the carved recess. The terraces were used for agricultural purposes, while the stone platform was likely used for ceremonial activities. The carved recess may have been used as a burial place or shrine to commemorate the dead.

The amphitheater.

The Incas held ceremonies at this site. 19 incomplete niches surround the 55-meter-diameter wall. A 6-meter-high stone on a rectangular pedestal includes a carved tunnel to an underground chamber, rooms, platforms, and a drainage system.

The carved stone.

It is a gigantic carved rock structure with side steps that reach the summit, where a tiny hole connects to a zigzagging channel that splits into two channels: one continues the slope, while the other descends to an underground chamber.

The Intihuatana and the astronomical observatory.

It is a polished rock with two little cylinders etched with accuracy, which researchers say is an Intihuatana that calculates the sun’s position and determines the solstices and equinoxes.

Cusilluchayoc.

It is a fascinating place with a 2-meter-high carved stone with a toad-like figure and monkey and snake carvings.

The underground chamber.

It was chiseled underground to build floors, tables, niches, and walls for sacred rites. It contains a rain drainage system and may have collected flaming blood during religious rituals.

The room of sacrifices.

One of Qenqo’s most unusual buildings is a ceremonial table in a subterranean chamber that may have been used for embalming or religious animal sacrifices.

Qenqo Inca Site FAQs

How was Qenqo used?.

Qenqo was an important religious site for the Inca. It was used for ceremonial purposes and as a place of burial. The site consists of terraces, and platforms cut into the hillside. Several large stones have been carved with images of animals and birds. Qenqo is located just outside of Cusco, Peru.

When was Qenqo built?.

It is believed to have been built by the Inca Empire in the 15th century by orders of the ninth Inca king Pachacuti.

Who built Qenqo?.

The Inca people built the Qenqo Inca site. The site is located in Peru and was built around the 15th century. The site includes a temple, an amphitheater, and a series of tunnels and chambers.

Why was Qenqo built?.

The underground features of Qenqo are very mysterious. A series of narrow tunnels leads to a large central chamber containing several strange carvings. It is unclear what this chamber was used for, but it may have had some religious or spiritual significance.

How to get to Qenqo from Cusco?.

To get to Qenqo from Cusco, you can take a taxi, bus, or private car. The journey takes around 20 minutes. If you are taking a taxi, agree on a price with the driver before setting off. Once you arrive at Qenqo, follow the signs to the main entrance.

What are the opening hours of Qenqo?.

The Qenqo archaeological site is located in the Cusco region of Peru. It is open to the public from 8 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday. Admission is free for all visitors.

What should I bring?.

When visiting Qenqo, there are a few things you should remember to bring with you.

Small ba¿ckpack to carry your belongings
Warm clothes
Rain gear
A hat or sunglasses, as the sun can be intense at high altitudes
Sunscreen
Comfortable walking shoes
A water bottle
Snacks as there are no food vendors at Qenqo
A camera to capture the beautiful views!

Tips for visiting.

Visit early in the morning or late afternoon. This will give you plenty of time to explore before the crowds arrive.
Bring plenty of water and snacks with you, as no food vendors are on site.
Be prepared for some hiking, as the site is high in the Andes mountains. Wearing comfortable shoes is a must!
Don’t miss the main attraction – The sacrificial room
Follow the tour guide’s instructions at all times.