Cuzco: the center of the world

We traveled through Cuzco (the state and city of the same of name), which was the center of the Incan Empire.

The four ruins closest to Cuzco are Sacsayhuaman, Qenko, Puca Pucara and Tambo Machay.  We visited each of these during our stay, before heading to Machu Picchu.

Sacsahuaman, which in Quecha means 'satisfied falcon' is an immense ruin in the immediate Cuzco area.  It's hard to imagine as you look at it, that what remains today is only 20% of the original structure.  Spaniards tore down the walls and used the blocks for their houses in Cuzco, leaving behind only the largest and most impressive rocks.

Here George treks through the Sacsayhuaman ruins.
The stone structures are just magnificant, overlooking Cuzco.

Tambo Machay, near the main road, is a beautiful, ceremonial stone bath, which channels spring water through fountains which still function today.

Just across the main road from Tambo Machay, is Puca Pucara.  In certain light, the rocks look pink and the name literally translated means "red fort."   It's believed to have been a hunting lodge, guard post or perhaps stopping point for travelers.

Did you know that despite the lasting legacy of the Incas, the Incan Empire only existed for nearly a century? From 1438-1532 the Incan Empire was as its peak.  It's astounding to view these ruins that have lasted for so long and imagine the work, with crude tools and implements, that went into creating them. Structures that have stood the test of time and now draw millions of people to walk amidst their splendor.