Archaeological Zone of Yurac Rumi | Cusco
Yurac Rumi is a Quechua word meaning “white stone”, and Yoc means “road”. So, Yurac Rumiyoc translates as “the road of the white stone”. In Vilcabamba, there is an archaeological site known as “Yurac Rumiyoc”, which is famous for having a stone with an Inca relief carved on it. This stone, also called “The Rock of the Inca”, is located on one of the walls of what is believed to have been an Inca temple. It is a popular tourist destination in Vilcabamba and attracts visitors interested in Inca history and culture.
The altitude of Yurac Rumiyoc in Vilcabamba may vary depending on the exact location within the region. However, Vilcabamba is generally located at an altitude of around 2,000 to 3,000 meters above sea level. It is important to take altitude into account when planning your visit to this area, especially if you are not accustomed to high altitudes.
History of the Archaeological Zone of Yurac Rumi | Cusco
The history of Yurac Rumiyoc in Vilcabamba is closely linked to the history of the Inca empire and its resistance against the Spanish conquest. Yurac Rumiyoc, which means “the road of the white stone” in Quechua, is known for housing a rock carved with an Inca relief on one of its walls.
During the period of the Spanish conquest, Vilcabamba was one of the last bastions of Inca resistance. It is believed that Yurac Rumiyoc was an important place in this area during that time, possibly used for ceremonial, religious or administrative purposes by the Incas who resisted the Spanish invasion.
The rock carving at Yurac Rumiyoc is considered a testimony to the art and skill of the Incas in stone carving. The relief shows geometric figures and Inca symbols, and it is believed that it could have had a religious or ceremonial meaning for the inhabitants of Vilcabamba.
Today, Yurac Rumiyoc is a popular tourist destination in Vilcabamba, attracting visitors interested in Inca history and culture. Exploring this site offers a unique opportunity to learn about Inca resistance against the Spanish conquest and appreciate Inca art and architecture in a stunning natural setting.
What to see in Yurac Rumi?
In Yurac Rumiyoc, there are several interesting things to see and experience:
- The Carved Rock: The main attraction of Yurac Rumiyoc is the rock carved with an Inca relief. This rock presents geometric figures and Inca symbols that show the artistic skill and cultural importance of the Incas in the region.
- Inca architecture: In addition to the carved rock, there may be other remains of Inca architecture in the area. You can explore the surrounding area to look for agricultural terraces, stone walls or ceremonial structures that may have been part of the Inca complex at Yurac Rumiyoc.
- Natural Landscapes: Yurac Rumiyoc is located in a stunning natural setting, surrounded by mountains and lush vegetation. Enjoy the panoramic views and take the opportunity to hike or just relax and enjoy the scenery.
- Cultural Interpretation: There may be interpretive panels or information provided by local guides to help you better understand the history and cultural significance of Yurac Rumiyoc and its surroundings. Take advantage of this information to enrich your experience.
In summary, Yurac Rumiyoc offers a unique combination of art, history and nature that makes it a fascinating destination to explore in Vilcabamba. Enjoy the beauty and history of this site while learning about the Inca culture and their resistance against the Spanish conquest.
How to get to Yurac Rumi?
Getting to Yurac Rumiyoc in Vilcabamba may require some planning and logistics due to its remote location in the Cusco region of Peru. Here are some common options for getting to Yurac Rumiyoc:
- By bus from Cusco: You can take a bus from the city of Cusco to the city of Quillabamba, which is the closest city to Vilcabamba. From Quillabamba, you can coordinate with a local guide or take additional transportation to Yurac Rumiyoc. The bus ride from Cusco to Quillabamba generally takes several hours.
- By cab or private transport: Another option is to hire a cab or private transport from Cusco to Vilcabamba. This can be a faster and more convenient method, but can also be more expensive than the bus.
- By organized tour: Many travel agencies in Cusco offer organized tours to Vilcabamba that include a visit to Yurac Rumiyoc and other archaeological sites in the region. Joining a tour can be a convenient option if you prefer to leave the logistics in the hands of professionals and enjoy a guided experience.
Regardless of the method you choose, it is important to be prepared for travel conditions, including altitude, weather and the logistics of getting to Yurac Rumiyoc once in the Vilcabamba region. It is also advisable to obtain up-to-date information on how to get there and site conditions before planning your visit.
Recommendations to visit Yurac Rumi
Here are some recommendations for visiting Yurac Rumiyoc:
- Physical preparation and acclimatization: Yurac Rumiyoc is located in a mountainous region of the Andes, so it is important to be physically prepared and to have properly acclimatized to the altitude before embarking on the visit. Taking time to acclimatize in Cusco or other high altitude areas before visiting Yurac Rumiyoc can help prevent altitude sickness.
- Proper clothing and equipment: Be sure to wear clothing and footwear suitable for walking on uneven terrain and at high altitudes. It is also important to bring sun protection, hat and warm clothing, as the weather in the Andes region can change quickly.
- Water and food: Bring enough water and food to keep you hydrated and energized during your visit, as you may not find stores or restaurants in the vicinity of Yurac Rumiyoc.
- Respect for the environment: Respect the natural and archaeological environment of Yurac Rumiyoc, avoiding leaving garbage and following the indications of the local guides to preserve the area.
- Interaction with the local community: If you have the opportunity, interact with the local inhabitants and learn about their culture, traditions and way of life. This can enrich your experience and give you a better understanding of the place you are visiting.
- Safety: It is always advisable to follow established routes and take extra precautions when exploring natural and archaeological areas. If possible, consider hiring a local guide for additional information and to ensure a safe and enriching experience.
By following these recommendations, you can enjoy a safe and rewarding visit to Yurac Rumiyoc, exploring its natural beauty and rich cultural history.
