A must-see in Cusco! Qorikancha Temple of the Sun | The most sacred temple of the Inca Empire

☀️ Travelogue of the Temple of the Sun in Cusco | Qorikancha, the Inca's Golden Heart

In Cusco, Peru, besides Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain,

Qorikancha (Temple of the Sun)

is a must-see historical monument. Once the most sacred religious center of the Inca Empire, it was a place of worship for the "Son of the Sun" and a symbol of the greatest glory of Inca civilization.

🏛️ Historical Background of the Temple of the Sun

During the Inca Period: It is said that the entire temple was paved with golden panels, and the roof and walls were inlaid with gold and gemstones, symbolizing the power and abundance of the sun.

During the Spanish Colonial Period: After the Spanish arrived, they plundered the gold and built the Convent of Santo Domingo on the site, marking the beginning of the interplay between Inca and Spanish culture.

Today, visitors can clearly see the coexistence of Inca stone walls and Spanish colonial architecture, perfectly demonstrating the historical fusion of civilizations.

✨ Tour Review
When I entered the Temple of the Sun, what struck me most wasn't the surviving golden legends, but the craftsmanship of the Inca stone walls. Each massive stone is so perfectly cut that even a blade can't penetrate it, yet it still stands tall after centuries.
The temple features exhibitions on Inca astronomy, agriculture, and beliefs, allowing one to better understand how the Inca used the sun and stars to plan their agricultural activities.
At dusk, the sunlight filtering through the stone walls transports one back to ancient Inca times, creating a sense of sacredness and tranquility.

📍 Travel Tips
Combining a visit to the Temple of the Sun with a Cusco city tour will provide a more complete understanding of Inca and colonial culture.
Tickets cost around 20 soles, a very good value.
A visit of approximately 1–1.5 hours is sufficient for the visit.
It's recommended to visit around 3:00 PM for optimal sunlight and a more atmospheric photo opportunity.

📸 Travelogue Summary
The Temple of the Sun is more than just a historical site; it's a meeting point between Inca civilization and Spanish colonialism. Walking through it, you'll not only feel the legend of lost gold, but also witness the story of the fusion of civilizations.

If you visit Cusco, besides Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain, don't miss the Temple of the Sun (Qorikancha), the heart of the Inca spirit.

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