Guide to the Pisac Archaeological Complex

The Pisac archaeological complex is an Inca-era site strategically constructed on a high promontory that provides a commanding view over the eastern portion of the Sacred Valley. Known as the “fortress of towers” because of the numerous watchtowers integrated into its design, the site served as a critical lookout point and controlled a primary access route to the Inca capital of Cusco (situated at an altitude of approximately 3,399 meters or 11,152 feet).

Historical Context and Symbolism

The complex was built in the 15th century during the reign of the Inca Pachacutec, a ruler responsible for the construction of other significant sites such as Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu, as well as the major expansion of Cusco and the Qorikancha.

Inca cities were often designed in the shape of a significant animal. Pisac was constructed to resemble a bird, specifically the Andean partridge. The name “Pisac” is derived from the Quechua words pisaq or p’isaqaq, which is the name for this bird. The partridge held an important place in Andean symbolism and is featured within the dark-cloud constellations of the Milky Way, a concept visually represented in a painting at the Qorikancha in Cusco.

Layout of the Archaeological Complex

The entire site spans a length of over two miles and is composed of several distinct sectors. Upon arriving at the upper entrance by vehicle, the most prominent features are the wide agricultural terraces built into the hillside and the remains of buildings situated on the crest of the hill.

Principal Sectors of the Site

The complex is functionally divided into five main sectors:

• K’alla Q’asa: This is the largest group of buildings, located on the hilltop and facing the primary terraces.
• Qaschis Raqay: A group of structures positioned to overlook the stream that flows below the cliffside cemetery.
• Tianayuc: Meaning “contains a seat” in Quechua, this is a small cluster of buildings arranged around a central space featuring a stone structure that resembles a sofa.
• Intiwatana: The primary ceremonial center of the complex. It is located approximately a 15 to 20-minute walk downhill from the K’alla Q’asa sector.
• Pisaq’a: A semicircular set of ruins that functioned as a guard post, situated halfway up the trail between the Urubamba River and the main ruins complex.

Key Architectural and Ceremonial Features

The Intihuatana This sector served as the most important ceremonial area of Pisac. The name Intihuatana translates to “place where the sun attaches to the earth.” An intihuatana is a sacred ritual stone, characteristically a piece of natural bedrock that is partially carved by humans while leaving a portion in its natural state. The Intihuatana at Pisac is noted for being larger and more complete than the more famous example found at Machu Picchu. This area, which also includes quarters for ñustas (Inca noblewomen), temples, and an observatory, requires a walk of approximately 30 minutes from the main upper entrance. Due to time constraints, typical group tours of the Sacred Valley, which often allocate only one hour for Pisac, do not usually include a visit to this significant section.

The Inca Cemetery The site includes a large cliffside filled with tomb openings. Often referred to as the largest known Inca cemetery, it contains thousands of looted burial sites. The Inca practiced mummification, burying their dead in a fetal position. All known tombs at Pisac were plundered by the Spanish during their invasion.

Logistics for Visiting Pisac

Transportation from Cusco to Pisac Town To reach Pisac via public transport from Cusco, travelers should go to Calle Puputi, a street approximately a 15-minute walk from the main plaza. From here, vans and collective cars depart regularly for the town of Pisac. The fare ranges from S/8 to S/12 per person. These vehicles drop passengers at a bridge at the entrance to the modern town of Pisac.

Transportation from Pisac Town to the Ruins A taxi stand is located just across the bridge. A taxi ride from this point directly to the upper entrance of the ruins costs approximately S/30 per car. It may be possible to find other taxis a few blocks into the town that offer a lower price, but they are not guaranteed to drive the full distance up to the ruins.

Access via Hiking Trail It is also possible to walk from the town up to the ruins.

• Starting Point: From the bridge, proceed into town, away from the river and toward the hills. The main plaza is four blocks from the bridge. Facing the church in the plaza, the trail begins from the left corner and continues uphill. The route passes the local artisanal market before reaching a wooden arch that marks the official start of the trail.
• The Trail: The path is well-marked with arrows, and alternate routes are often closed with wooden gates. There are benches for resting and a small wooden bridge. The trail ascends past numerous agricultural terraces, some of which are still farmed today, and the Q’allaqasa guard post.
• Arrival Point: The trail enters the archaeological complex at its lower end, near the Intihuatana sector, providing access to the area most tourists do not see.
• Altitude Gain: The town of Pisac is located at 2,950 meters (9,680 feet), and the ruins are at 3,300 meters (10,827 feet), making the hike a continuous uphill climb.
• Alternative: A popular option is to take a taxi to the upper entrance of the ruins and walk back down the trail to the town.

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