Cusco
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Location
Cuzco is located in the Southeastern region of Peru in South America. Cuzco is in the middle of the Andes, at 11,217 feet above sea level. It has an area of 76,329 square km and a population of 1,028,763 people. The climate is generally mild, cold and dry. The rainy season runs from November to March and the dry season runs from April to October.
Name
Cuzco, whose name derives from a Quechua word meaning “navel” or “centre,” dates from the 11th or 12th century and was the capital of Tawantinsuyu (“Realm of the Four Parts”), an empire that by the late 15th century extended to the northwest some 1,100 miles (1,800 km), reaching approximately to the northern border of present-day Ecuador, and to the south 1,600 miles (2,600 km), reaching the centre of present-day Chile, as well as to the southeast to portions of modern Bolivia and Argentina. The population of the empire at the time of the Spanish conquest, in the 1530s, may have numbered more than 12 million. The city itself had tens of thousands of inhabitants, perhaps as many as 200,000. Cuzco and the surrounding area contain extensive Inca ruins that reflect great skill in engineering, stonework, and architecture. Still extant are numerous walls built without mortar; their stones were cut in irregular shapes and fitted with such precision that a matchbox cover cannot be inserted into most seams. The famous Stone of Twelve Angles is a fine example of this construction. The original streets of Cuzco are narrow and frequently stepped.
History
The Inca Empire
According to the stories passed down through generations of Quechuas, the mythical monarch Manco Capac founded the city of Cusco at the beginning of the 13th century B.C. with the help of his three brothers and four sisters. Under Inca rule, the empire grew and developed: the systems of past cultures were improved; magnificent structures were built, such as roads and stone bridges; crop production increased, thanks to the construction of irrigration channels and aqueducts; and huge fortresses were built.
Life in the Inca Empire before the arrival of Europeans is often pictured as peaceful and pleasant. In most ways, life for the Indians under Inca rule was better than the cruelty which they later suffered under the Spaniards – but life under the Incas was not always pleasant. At times, life in the Inca Empire was bloody and brutal. The Inca Empire was sometimes referred to as the "Empire of Blood and Gold.
Cuzco, and other Inca cities, were busy like most other cities. There were frequent messengers traveling back and forth across the empire with news or delivering orders from the Inca to his administrators. Armies, engineers and processions of priests and administrators traveled throughout the empire as they were needed, and trains of llamas brought back loads of food, cloth and other exotic goods intended for the Inca’s royal storehouses. Despite the Incas’ fine roads, the wheel was unknown to the Incas before the arrival of Europeans so travel was always on foot.
The Inca was the most important person in the empire. He was revered as the empire’s ruler, but people also believed that he was a living god – descended from the Sun. This meant that the Inca was worshipped by his people, and controlled religious ceremonies as well as running his empire.
As befitting his high rank, the Inca was dressed in the finest clothes interwoven with gold, and lived in a huge palace. He had many servants chosen from the empire’s most beautiful women, and a personal guard of over 100 relatives of royal blood. Everywhere he went, he was treated like a god.
Wherever the Inca traveled within the empire, he was accompanied by huge crowds of loyal followers and servants. They carried him on a golden litter lined with brightly colored macaw feathers, preceded by a parade of women and children in colorful costumes who swept the ground before him, threw flowers and played music. The Inca’s face was hidden behind a very fine fabric because it was thought that his appearance was too powerful to be seen by the human eye.
Those related to the Inca were very fortunate. The Inca made sure that his relatives were granted titles, wealth and important positions responsible for the running of the empire.
Spanish Conquest
Forces of the Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro occupied Cuzco in November 1533 and sacked the city. Pizarro formally established the municipal government of Cuzco in March 1534 in the name of the emperor Charles V, but the city declined in importance after Pizarro moved his capital to the coastal site of Lima in 1535.
Besides, the great city of Cusco still conserves remnants of that ancient age of splendor. These have become obligatory stops on tourist itineraries, along with the city´s important buildings from the colonial period. Any journey through this beautiful city should begin in the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Cusco, where you will find the venerable cathedral. Its construction was begun in 1556, but design changes and the earthquake of 1650 delayed its completion.
A major earthquake occurred in 1650, causing great destruction to the buildings then standing in Cuzco. The rebuilding efforts that followed mark the beginning of the Cuzco Baroque period, during which the city was the centre of a prolific artistic production in masonry, painting, sculpture, jewelry, and ornamental woodworking. The work was guided or influenced by Roman Catholic priests and monks, and several notable churches and other buildings were erected in place of—or above—existing Inca structures. Three hundred years later, in May 1950, Cuzco experienced another significant earthquake, which damaged all the churches and almost 90 percent of the dwellings.
Architecture
The church of Santo Domingo, consecrated in 1654, incorporates the foundations and several walls of the Koricancha (Coricancha), a Quechua name meaning “Golden Enclosure,” or “Golden Garden”; the site was dedicated to Viracocha, the creator deity, and Inti, the sun god, and is also known as the Temple of the Sun. It also contained shrines to a variety of other deities. It was constructed by the Inca on a sacred site and served as the nucleus of a grand astronomical and calendrical observatory. During Inca rule, the Koricancha's finely crafted walls were sheathed in hundreds of silver and gold plates, and its roof was covered with a mixture of thatch and gold “straws” so that it glittered in the sunlight. In its terraced gardens the Inca ruler ceremonially planted finely crafted gold statuettes in the form of stalks of corn (maize). According to some early chroniclers, the temple grounds also contained gold statues of llamas, shepherds, insects, flowers, and small animals. As with most other treasures of the Inca empire, however, the artwork of the Koricancha was converted into bullion and shipped to Spain.
The city's other architecturally significant buildings include the National University of San Antonio Abad del Cuzco (founded 1598); the church of La Compañía, which was built on the foundations of the Temple of the Serpents (Amarucancha); La Merced church and convent, the earliest Christian church in Cuzco (founded 1534); and the Santa Catalina convent, which replaced the House of the Virgins of the Sun (Acllahuasi or Acllawasi). The home of the 16th-century historian Garcilaso de la Vega is also notable.
The cyclopean fortress of Sacsahuamán (Sacsayhuamán, or Saqsaywamán) overlooks the valley from a hill 755 feet (230 metres) above Cuzco. It is said that, in the Inca city plan, Cuzco was laid out in the shape of a puma (an animal sacred to the Inca), with Sacsahuamán forming its head and jaws. That image is reinforced by the zigzag outline of the fortress's massive three-tiered battlements, facing outward from the city. Many of its component stones are the size of boulders, weighing as much as 100–300 tons and measuring up to 27 feet (8.2 metres) in height. Sacsahuamán's walls extend horizontally more than 1,000 feet (305 metres). Defensive towers and other structures on the hill behind the walls were razed by Spanish forces. Sacsahuamán is said to have been constructed over a period of 80 years with a labour force of 20,000. Both the time of its construction and the method used to transport the stones are unknown. Facing the fortress across a wide parade ground is the so-called Throne of the Inca, a rounded mass of solid rock upon which were cut “seats” that, according to tradition, were occupied by Inca nobles during major ceremonies and celebrations. Other ruins nearby include the Inca bath, or Tambomachay (Tampumacchay); the Kenco amphitheatre; and the fortress of Puca Pucara.
City Planning
Quechua planners used resources and knowledge of ancestral cultures. That way they could improve the use of their geography in order to establish a system of human settlements, to create a road network and to improve communications, lodging and supplying substructures (a broad and complete study about this subject was done by Santiago Agurto from which some of this information was taken). It is obvious that Inkan City Planning depended on some elementary aspects, among which we can mention their deep pantheist religion that considered in a very special way their environment: the Pachamama (Mother Earth), the Apus and Aukis (Mountains' and Valleys' Spirits), the Wakas (Temples) framed in Ceques (imaginary lines with Waka successions). City Planning was also consequence of their broad pragmatism and the economic sense that an urban center represented. The Inkas, being a farming society had to reserve the best lands for their main activity without wasting them for temples or villages that were built in rustic terrains.
Even inside the towns, the streets were always narrow to take a maximum advantage of the land. City Planning was also determined by some other order and authority elements, with their aforementioned principles of Bi, Tri and Fourth partition, Symmetry, Opposition, Repetition and Subordination. Two parts are found in the urban design of Inkan Qosqo City, Hanan Qosqo and Urin Qosqo (upper and lower Qosqo); four sectors corresponding to the four nations of the Tawantinsuyo; twelve neighborhoods resulting from dividing each sector in three; and the subdivision of each neighborhood in three sub-ones, Collana, Payan and Cayao. Hanan was more important than Urin; while that Chinchaysuyo opposed Collasuyo and Contisuyo to Antisuyo.
City Planning had an integrating position too, thus it normally tried to be integrated with nature. That is the reason why the Inkan Society is classified as eminently ecologist. Commonly, inside an urban core its central part was occupied by temples and palaces, while that the peripheries by settlements in a decreasing way considering their importance.
The road network in pre-Hispanic Peru was really impressive for its age. It caused wonder among the first Europeans who visited the Tawantinsuyo and did not hesitate comparing it with that developed by Romans that were the only ones having something of such magnitude in the Old World. The road network had to allow a fast intercommunication between Qosqo and the entire Tawantinsuyo and vice versa. It was intended to get territorial integration, after giving security, relax and supplies for travelers, official suites or the army.
It was supposed to allow an efficient production, gathering and redistribution of goods and raise tributary resources. Roads and paths had different categories, functions and characteristics according to their duties and the territory where they were located. In the coast they were just dusty ones but on a level higher than natural soil. Crossing the deserts there were pegs and even ropes to make their limits. In rainy and humid regions they were totally paved with cobbles or flagstones. All roads were always planned to give comfort to walking travelers. There was a road hierarchy with two important categories: the first category formed by the Inkañan (Inka Road) or royal roads that were, for example, the ones that united Qosqo and the four "Suyos", roads known as Qhapaq Ñan: principal or rich road. In this same category were the Hatun Ñan: big or broad road; they constituted the primary road network that had between 10 to 25 thousand Kms. (6200 to 15500 miles), with a width from 4 to 8 meters (13 to 26 ft). The second category was formed by the Runañan (peoples' road) or roads for common people; they served for communications between villages and districts.
The road system went over the Tawantinsuyo longitudinal and transversely; all together it reached some 40,000 Kms. (some 25000 miles). This system was constantly supervised by officials following different hierarchies as the Qhapaq Ñan Tukuyrikuq, the Hatun Ñan Qamayoq or simply the Ñan Qamayoq.
Something very impressive were also the Bridges (Chaka) under the charge of the Chaka Qamayoq. Bridges that had to serve crossing rivers and had to be adapted to the site's topography, distance and materials availability. According to their construction procedure bridges can be grouped in:
Trunks and Logs Bridges
They were a favorite type when bridges were small.
Stone Bridges
Formed by slabs and they existed of two sorts: those of just one window, and those that presented many windows or spaces to let water flow.
Huaros, Uruyas or Oroyas, Tarabitas (in Ecuador)
They were something like cable cars consisting in a very thick hemp rope woven in "chawar" fibers. The hemp rope was tied to thick trees or boulders, by which an osier basket having a thick wooden handle and transporting persons and goods was slid with the help of some other ropes.
Suspension Bridges
Constructed with thick hemp ropes and cords braided with "Ichu" the local wild bunch grass or fibers of "Pakpa" or Century Plants (Agave americana). Sometimes they were reinforced with leathers of South-American cameloids and tied to stone supports in both banks of the river forming a narrow but strong passage. The bridges of this type were known as " Simp'achaka" or "braided bridge". Today, the most eloquent example of this sort of bridge is that found in Qheswachaka over the Apurimac River.
Floating Bridges
Used to cross calm or detained waters and made with different vegetal fibers. It is famous the bridge of this sort that existed in Inkan times over the Desaguadero River (Titicaca Lake) made with braided totora reeds that seemed to be a platform over which a large amount of reeds were sewn to the hemp ropes.
A complete system of different services was found over the vast Inkan road network. It was planned in order to allow integration, safety, supplies and relaxation. A part of this system were the Chaski, something like a post crew formed by athletic young relay runners prepared to cover quickly the distance between two Chaskiwasi (chaski's house) that had an average of 2.5 Kms. (1.55 miles). Their aim was to carry messages that could be oral or goods with ideo-graphic meanings such as the Qhipu (Inkan accounting system consisting in multicolored knotted strings), textiles with Tokapus (different symbols framed by squares), some other elements engraved or painted, etc. Moreover, the Chaskis had to carry some other important objects for the Inka and certain noblemen: it is traditionally known that the Inka in Qosqo used to eat fresh fish brought from the coast through this system. This service was uninterrupted all day long, besides being sufficiently quick. These young runners transmitting or passing messages could go over from 15 to 20 kms/hour (from 9.5 to 12.5 miles/h), thence from 360 to 480 Kms. per day (from 224 to 298 miles per day).
Another element found on the roads involving services were the Tanpu or Tambo in its Spanish form. They were important villages, economic axles having huge lodges with capacity to serve opportune and efficiently even dozens of thousands of people, with enormous storehouses containing, food, clothing, weapons and tools. They had an economic and social rule, and public officials under direct control of Qosqo. They possessed all the facilities that were found in the cities too, such as communication posts, temples, astral observatories, etc., and occupied strategic spots in order to offer timely comfort for the traveling masses. They were normally located between distances of one walking day, that is, between 40 to 50 kms. (25 to 31 miles). It is obvious that there were different Tambo categories; the less important ones offering only lodge were found every half walking day, between 20 to 25 kms. (12.5 to 15.5 miles). Departing from Qosqo through the 7 most important roads (after a half walking day) following the sense of the clock hands were (clockwise and beginning on the north) P'isaq, Quispikanchi or Pikillaqta, Yaurisque, Wanoquite, Jakijawana or Zurite, Chinchero and Calca; after one walking day following the same direction were more important Tambos such as Paucartambo, Urkostambo, Pakariqtambo, Tambobamba, Limatambo, Ollantaytambo and Amparaes.
Agriculture
In the environs of Cuzco, potatoes and grains are cultivated for local consumption, and sheep, alpaca, and llama are grazed. Important local industries are the production of cloth, rugs, tapestries, fine metalwork, and beer for both the local and tourist markets. The population is chiefly Indian and mestizo. The famous ruins of Machu Picchu are accessible by rail and helicopter from the city, and roads link it with nearby Pisaq (noted for its weekly market and for its hilltop ruins), Ollantaytambo (a terraced fortress at the head of the Vilcanota valley), Urubamba (a favourite resort of the Inca), and the village of Chinchero. Cuzco is linked to Puno, Arequipa, and other southern cities by road and railway and is connected with Lima by road. Many foreign tourists and Peruvian travelers reach the city by air. Each June 24, Cuzco hosts Inti Raymi (“Festival of the Sun”), a grand celebration and pageant in commemoration of the ancient Inca religious festival of the solstice.
The culture
The culture's identity is represented and personified by its most notable warrior, government official, and statesman, the Great Inca Pachakuteq, founder of the Tawantinsuyo Empire. One of the tallest (113 feet) and most spectacular monuments in Latin America is the one erected in his honor, located in the Pachakuteq traffic circle.
To experience one of the most beloved traditions of the Peruvian community, you must see the Inti Raymi, a celebration held every June 24 in honor of the sun god of the fortress, or "Fortaleza del Halcon" located in the northern zone of the city of Cusco about 836 feet above the Plaza de Armas or 12,000 feet above sea level. The city gathers around the fort on that day, and delegates from the four zones of the ancient Inca empire parade by in their traditional costumes to the rhythm of ancient music.
Finally, the great Inca appears transported on a litter - which during the imperial era was made from gold and silver- accompanied by an entourage of dignitaries who follow at a respectful distance. While the pututos (indigenous instrument made from an animal's horn), bugles and Indian flutes are sounded, the Inca stands up and pays homage to Inti, the sun god, with outstretched arms, promising obedience, respect, and adoration. This tradition reflects the deep admiration that the people of Cusco have for the ancient culture of the Incas.
In the minds of the newer generations, that a time period is synonymous with prosperity and unequaled greatness, and is considered by many as the Andean utopia. The city of Cusco sits perched amidst the clouds and the lush Andean greenery 11,000 feet above sea level, an everlasting legacy to Peru´s rich history.
Festivities
The city of Cusco has always been characterized by its happines, hospitality and marvellous traditions which lives inside the spirit of its people. The Calendar is well organized with festivities through all the year, which makes Cusco very attractive due the combination of Spanish and Inka cultures .
Holly Week
April. Religious festival. In Cusco this celebration has its own peculiarity, observing the pilgrimage of many local, national and foreign people. Holly Monday has a great importance due that the Lord of the Earthquakes(the statue of an indian Christ)is taken on procession around the main square to give his blessing to the local poeople.
Qoyllor Rit`i
June. Religious festival translated as fiesta of the Lord of Ice. You can appreciate pre-Hispanic rituals mixed with Christian traditions, on a three-day-celebration . The place where this festival takes place is called Sinaqara, Ocongate; located at 4800 m.a.s.l with a temperature that reaches -4°C. It is particular for being a famous pilgrimage with more than 20 000 faithful followers, undertaking a 8 Km hike. Dance groups from the region and other regions take part of it. On the return journey ,they make rituals such as the adoration of the Apu Ausangate and the Lord of Qoyllur Rit'i. The festival is considered as the most important in America.
Corpus Cristi
June. Religious festival celebrated in the Plaza de Armas of Cusco. The 14 images of saints from churches in Cusco participate in the parade. The start is preceeded by an enormous float covered entirely on silver. It is a mixture of Andean and Catholic traditions, you can appreciate the luxure of every image, and tipical food like the famous roasted guinea pig).
Winter Solstice
24th June. One of Peru's prime tourist attraction. It is a performance of the Fiesta of the Sun in Inka's time, the journey starts at Qoricancha and ends up at Sacsayhuaman, where the spectacle is even better, you can appreciate the sacrifice of the llama offered to the sun, many dances and even the performance of the Inka itself.
Virgen del Carmen
16 July. This Festivity takes place in Paucartambo with 15 different dances which perform for four days nonstoping, plus there is free food and drinks at every "cargo" which is offered by the people in charge of each dance. What you can probably do as well is going up to Tres Cruces, a place not far from Paucartambo where you can appreciate a very peculiar and espectacular sunrise, where the sun seems to divide and rise up as two suns. Definately worth going.
Offering to the Mother`s earth
August. This celebration is quite interesting because it was created by the Inkas, it is a ritual of adoration of the land. This festivity was meant to please the land so it would give them a good year and great production.
Tourist Month
From September to October there are many sportive, cultural and ecological events in favor of the touristic month.
Equinoxe
Octuber 30th. Cusco is located 13 degrees down from the ecuatorial line, so that the equinoxe here is different. On octuber 30th the the sun at noon sets exactly at the center (cenith) over our heads; meanwhile the moon opposite to the sun (at nadir); so that the andean cosmology idea mentions that exist a link between the sky and the underworld.
Santuranticuy
December 25th. Christmas time brings the magic of a beautiful fair on the main square or Plaza de Armas, Many people from the mountains come to sell images of the baby Jesus, Virgin Mary, Joseph and the three kings (all made by them), they also sell images of sheppers animals, etc. Appart from that the last few years, the number of sellers and the variety of products have increased the variety of products they sell such as, clothes,ceramics, souvenirs and a lot of things.
References
See also
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