Inca ruins in Sacred Valley

Inca Archaeological Sites

Explore the architectural achievements of the Inca Empire throughout the Sacred Valley. This collection features the circular agricultural terraces of Moray, designed for microclimate experiments, and the high-altitude estate of Huchuy Qosqo. Significant sites include the fortified ruins of Pumamarca and the rock-carved shrine of Choquequilla. From the colonial-Inca fusion in Chinchero to the steep mountain granaries of Pinkuylluna, these locations demonstrate advanced engineering, strategic defense, and sacred landscape integration within the Urubamba drainage.

Inca Archaeological Sites — Map

McKay Savage / CC BY 2.0

A

Moray Ruins

Moray is an archaeological site in Peru approximately 50 kilometres northwest of Cuzco on a high plateau at about 3,500 metres and just…

Aufgang / CC BY-SA 3.0

B

Sacred Valley of the Incas

The Sacred Valley of the Incas, or the Urubamba Valley, is a valley in the Andes of Peru, north of the Inca capital of Cusco.

Dr. Eugen Lehle / CC BY-SA 3.0

C

Chinchero

A small Andean village offers a beautiful view over the Sacred Valley of the Incas. There are also ruins of Inca buildings.

Karen Gracy Alexandrino / CC BY-SA 4.0

D

Pinkuylluna

Pinkuylluna or Pinkulluna is an archaeological site on a mountain of the same name in Peru located in the Cusco Region, Urubamba Province,…

E

Huchuy qosqo

An ancient royal estate situated high above the town of Lamay. It features a large kallanka (great hall), fine imperial-style stonework, and sophisticated irrigation channels. The site served as a retreat for the eighth Inca ruler, Viracocha.

F

Pumamarca

A fortified archaeological site located at the confluence of the Patacancha and Yuracmayo rivers. It contains well-preserved defensive walls and residential buildings, showcasing a blend of Wari and Inca architectural influences.

G

Choquequilla

Also known as Ñaupa Iglesia, this sacred shrine is carved directly into a cave wall. It features a masterfully crafted 'blind door' and a black stone altar, likely used for lunar ceremonies and astronomical observations.

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