What is Kuelap in Peru?
Kuelap, one of the largest ancient monuments of the Americas, was a fortified citadel in northern Peru on the slopes of the Andes. The remains of the settlement sit 3,000 meters above sea level and the original fortress covered 15 hectares.
How old is Kuelap?
Between 900 and 1,100 years old
Kuelap vs. Machu Picchu
| Comparing Kuelap and Machu Picchu | Kuelap |
|---|---|
| Age | Between 900 and 1,100 years old. Some structures are up to 1,500 years old. |
| Size of the main complex | 1,968 ft (600 m) long, 394 ft (120 m) wide |
| Civilization | Chachapoyas |
| Location | Amazonas Region |
Who discovered Kuelap?
Juan Crisóstomo Nieto
It was discovered in 1843 by Juan Crisóstomo Nieto, then a judge of Chachapoyas, during an expedition through the area. After three hours of exploration, Nieto saw the walls of the great complex in the distance, covered with vegetation and practically intact.
How do I get to Kuelap?
Getting to Kuelap Nuevo Tingo is around 2 hours from Chachapoyas, and the journey will cost each person 8-10 soles. From there, you can get on a public bus that will take you directly to the cable cars. The cable cars cost 20 soles for a round trip. Alternatively, you can take on the 3-hour hike up to the ruins.
Where is Kuelap located?
Peru
Kuélap or Cuélap is a walled settlement located in the mountains near the towns of María and Tingo, in the southern part of the region of Amazonas, Peru. It was built by the Chachapoyas culture in the 6th century AD on a ridge overlooking the Utcubamba Valley.
What is the ancient fortress of Peru?
Sacsayhuaman
Sacsayhuaman is an impressive Inca fortress on a steep hill that overlooks all of Cusco. The ruins are humongous, but archeologists believe that the original site was as much as four times larger.
What is great about Pisac Market?
The Pisac Market is one of the most famous markets in the Cusco region, drawing many visitors to its famous Sunday market when indigenous Quechua communities from the surrounding highlands come to Pisac to sell their produce and stock up on supplies for the week.
How was Sacsayhuaman rediscovered?
The ruins were covered in earth by the Spanish to prevent their use by rebel Inca forces and the site was not rediscovered until its excavation in 1934 CE. Today the ruins of the fortress are the location for the annual Inca reenactment festival the Inti Raymi, held on the winter solstice.