The Pisac Archaeological Site in Cusco was declared Cultural Heritage of the Nation by the National Institute of Culture of Cusco (R.D.N. Nº 429/INC-2002). It covers an area of 9,063 hectares.
Pisac: Living History in the Heart of the Sacred Valley
Pisac is one of the most visited destinations in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, located in the Peruvian Andes. The Sacred Valley was one of the most important regions for the Inca Empire due to its climate, fertile lands, and deep spiritual connection with nature. The Incas built impressive cities here, and one of them is Pisac, known for its archaeological complex and vibrant handicraft market. The site sits on the slope of Apu Inti Huatana, above the modern town of the same name, about 30 kilometers from the city of Cusco, in the district and province of Calca.
The Pisac archaeological complex includes agricultural terraces, temples, and a large fortress that once protected the valley. It is a blend of living Inca history, with preserved Inca structures and colonial heritage such as the town’s colonial streets and its 1820 clay oven where traditional empanadas and breads are still baked.
History of the Pisac Archaeological Park
The Pisac Archaeological Park is located on the mountain of Apu Intiwatana, known today as an astronomical observatory.
The town of Pisac sits at 2,950 m.a.s.l., while the archaeological site is located around 3,300 m.a.s.l. According to historians, Pisac was invaded by the Spanish in the 16th century. Many important structures were damaged, and the Inca cemetery was destroyed and looted.
Pisac is divided into two areas: the ancient sector on top, which forms the Archaeological Park, and the modern town below in the valley. The lower area dates back to colonial times and is home to Pisac’s colorful main square and famous artisan market.
It is one of the most important and visited places in the Sacred Valley. Located to the east of the Vilcabamba mountain range, Pisac follows the traditional Inca practice of designing cities in the shapes of animals. Pisac is said to resemble a puna partridge (Nothoprocta ornata branickii Taczanowski).
Architecture of Pisac: A Testament to Inca Engineering
Pisac was declared an Archaeological Park in 2002 and features attractions stretching over 4 km. Among them are the towers or pucaras, cone-shaped structures used as water channels and defensive forts during the Inca era. Two types have been identified: residential towers and watchtowers. Their beauty and planning are remarkable. The complex also includes five sectors built across different terrains, each with unique architectural characteristics, such as Qaschisraqay, K’alla Q’asa, Intiwatana, Pisaq’a, and Tianayuc. Additionally, the 40 terraces of Acchapata form an inverted triangle used mainly for agriculture. Across the complex, you can find temples, palaces, courtyards, chambers, and altars each with a distinct purpose and unique historical value.
The Inti Huatana is considered Pisac’s Temple of the Sun, serving as an astronomical observatory.
Main Structures
The main structures of Pisac include:
The Walls: A large complex of walls serving as the eastern entrance. It features five gates, including the famous “Amaru Punku,” meaning “Serpent Gate” in Quechua.
The Tunnels: Two passageways carved into the mountain that were used for religious rituals. The first is 16 meters long, and the second is 3 meters.
The Inca Bridge: The remains of several Inca suspension bridges are located on the western side of the complex. These bridges were made of cane rope and were widely used throughout the empire.
The Intihuatana: The most important structure in Pisac, the Intihuatana or “solar clock,” is carved from stone in multiple levels and located at the highest part of the complex. The top surface is shaped like a table.
The Colcas (Storage Deposits): Circular structures used to store food. Pisac has up to six storage buildings arranged in aligned rows, similar to those found across the Inca Empire.
The Inca Cemetery: Opposite the archaeological park is a cliff filled with thousands of burial niches. It is estimated that up to 10,000 tombs existed here. The Incas believed in reincarnation, so bodies were buried with belongings. This cemetery was destroyed by the Spanish in the 16th century.
The Towers: At the top of Pisac stands a group of large polished-stone towers. They protected the site from invasions and may also have regulated the water flow.
The Enchanted Ñusta: On the way to Pisac, there is a rock formation shaped like a woman carrying bundles on her back, reflecting traditional Inca customs. According to legend, it represents Princess Inquill, who was turned into stone by the gods for disobeying her father.
The Tiyanacuy: Located in the lower area of the site, this sector is made up of various neighborhoods with small structures. Here you can see a perfectly carved stone seat for two, believed to have been used by Inca Pachacutec and his wife.
La Calla Casa: A rustic group of irregular structures built on top of the mountain, taking advantage of natural rock formations. Access is difficult due to steep cliffs.
Pisaq or Pisaqa: This neighborhood is said to take the shape of a Pisaqa, a type of Andean partridge. “The figure of a Pisaqa represented here measures about 240 meters long from beak to tail and about 60 meters wide.” It includes more than twenty well-crafted stone structures.
Strategic Location
Located 30 km from the city of Cusco, the Pisac Archaeological Park sits in the district of Pisac, province of Calca, department of Cusco.
Transportation Options
For the Cusco–Calca–Pisac route, buses depart from Puputi Street or Avenida Tullumayu. The distance is approximately 32.4 km, or about 48 minutes.
For the Pisac town to archaeological site route, it is approximately 9.3 km (15 minutes) and can be done by private transport or taxi.
Schedules and Prices
Visiting hours:
- Monday to Sunday – Open daily.
- Hours: 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
- The full tourist ticket costs S/ 130.00 and includes 15 sites. The partial tourist ticket costs S/ 70.00 (foreign rate) and may include either the archaeological sites of Sacsayhuamán, Qenqo, Pucapucara, Tambomachay or the Sacred Valley circuit (Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, Moray). Full ticket for Peruvians: S/ 70.00; Partial ticket for Peruvians: S/ 40.00.
Tips for Visiting
For your visit to Pisac, consider the following recommendations:
- Bring your tourist ticket.
- Wear a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Use light clothing during the rainy season, and a rain jacket.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Carry a small backpack.
- Bring water and snacks.
- Bring cash.
- And bring your camera to capture the best moments.
Cultural and Spiritual Importance of Pisac
Pisac holds great cultural and spiritual importance in Andean history, traditions, and heritage. It was an essential religious and military center for the Incas, where ceremonies were held and deities such as the Sun and the Moon were worshiped.
- The name comes from the Quechua word Pisaqa, referring to a bird similar to the Andean partridge.
- It was an important citadel.
- It was a religious center where Inca ceremonies were performed.
- It is renowned for folkloric dances and traditional costumes.
- Quechua mass is celebrated in Pisac’s main square.
- In the market, ancestral customs can be observed.
- On Sundays, villagers from high Andean communities come to sell or trade their products.
- The terraces and temples demonstrate the Incas’ advanced engineering and agricultural knowledge.
What to See Near the Pisac Archaeological Park
Nearby places include the town of Lamay, the Calca Valley, Mount Veronica, the Vilcanota River, Ollantaytambo, Chinchero, and Maras.
