Archaeological Site of Huanuco Pampa | Huanuco
Location
The Archaeological Site of Huanuco Pampa | Huanuco, also known as Huanuco Marka or Huanuco Viejo, is an archaeological site located in the district of La Union, in the province of Dos de Mayo, in the department of Huanuco, Peru. It is at an altitude of 3,700 meters above sea level and has an area of approximately 600 hectares.
History:
The Huanuco Pampa Archaeological Site was built by the Incas in the mid-15th century, during the reign of Inca Pachacutec. The city was conceived as an important administrative, economic and religious center of the Inca Empire. It is estimated that at its peak, Huanuco Pampa was home to more than 10,000 people.
The construction of the city was interrupted by the arrival of the Spanish in 1532. The Spanish conquistadors sacked and burned the city, and its inhabitants were enslaved or relocated to other areas. Huanuco Pampa was never rebuilt and has remained in ruins ever since.
Importance
Important administrative, economic and religious center of the Inca Empire: The city was conceived as an important administrative, economic and religious center of the Inca Empire. At its peak, Huanuco Pampa was home to more than 10,000 people.
Testimony to the expansion of the Inca Empire: The construction of the city is a testimony to the expansion of the Inca Empire in the Huanuco region. The city was built with typical Inca techniques and presents a clear influence of Inca architecture.
Tourist Attraction: The site is an important tourist attraction that allows visitors to learn about the history and culture of the Inca Empire. The ruins of the site are well preserved and offer a unique experience to visitors.
Attractions:
The Archaeological Site of Huanuco Pampa is one of the most important archaeological sites in Peru. Visitors can tour the ruins of the city and observe the different structures that are still preserved, such as:
The Temple: The Temple was the main religious center of the city. It was dedicated to the Sun God and was located in the highest part of the complex.
The Ushno: The Ushno was a ceremonial platform where sacrifices and rituals were performed.
The Colcas: The Colcas were warehouses where agricultural products were stored.
Las Viviendas: The Viviendas were the houses where the inhabitants of the city lived.
The Baths of the Inca: The Baths of the Inca are a set of stone pools that were used to take ritual baths.
how to get there?
The archeological site of Huanuco Pampa is located 149 kilometers from the city of Huanuco. It can be reached by car or bus. If you go by car, take the Huanuco – Ambo highway and then the detour to La Union. If you go by bus, you can take a bus from Huanuco to La Union.
It takes 1 day and 3 hours to get to the Huanuco Pampa Archaeological Site from your current location, in Cusco, taking Highway 30A. The total distance is 1,542 km.
Recommendations:
- Leave in plenty of time. The trip is long, so it is important to leave with enough time to avoid arriving late.
- Check traffic conditions before leaving. Traffic on Highway 30A can be heavy, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Bring water and snacks. The trip is long and can be tiring, so it is important to bring water and snacks to keep you hydrated and energized.
- Make rest stops. If you feel tired, make stops to rest and stretch your legs.
- Enjoy the trip. The trip to Huanuco Pampa is an opportunity to enjoy the scenery and learn a little more about Peruvian culture.
