Pisac Peru is a pretty, Andean village picturesquely situated at the eastern end of the valley. Though Pisac Peru seems to be known principally for its Sunday artisan´s market, a crowded and touristy but thoroughly enjoyable affair, it should be more widely recognized and visited for its splendid Inca ruins, which rival Machu Picchu. Perched high on a cliff is the largest fortress complex built by the Incas. The commanding distant views over a luxuriously long valley of green patchwork fields, from atop a mountain spur reached by a strenuous hike, are worthy of cliché: They are, quite literally, breathtaking.
Archaeologists originally thought the Pisac Peru ruins were a fortress to defend against fierce Antis (jungle peoples), though there´s little evidence that battles were fought here. Now it seems that Pisac was a bit of everything: citadel, religious site, observatory, and residence, and may have served as a refuge in times of siege. The complex also has a temple to the sun and a astronomical observatory, from which priests calculated the growing season each year. Narrow trails wind tortuosly between and through solid rock. You may find yourself practically alone on the series of paths in the mountains that lead you among the ruins, through caves, and past the largest known Inca cemetery (the Inca buried their dead in tombs high on the cliffs). Just as spectacular as the site are the views from it.
Farther above are more Pisac Peru ruins and burial grounds, still in the process of being excavated.
Pisac Peru Market
Pisac´s famous market-held each Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday- draws locals and tourists alike. Fruits, vegetables, and grains share the stage with ceramics, jewelry, and woolens on the central plaza and spill over into the side streets. Sellers ser up shop about 8 AM on market days and start packing up at about 3 PM. The market is not so different from many others you´ll see around Peru, only larger. Go on Sunday if your schedule permits; you´ll have a chance to take in the 11 AM Quechua Mass at the Iglesia San Pedro Apostolo and watch the elaborate costumed procession led by the mayor, who carries his varayoc, a ceremonial staff, out of the church afterward. Suday afternoon sees bands and beer tents-this is small-town Peru at its best.Pisac Peru Ruins
From the market area, drive or take a taxi USD 3 one-way up the winding road to the Inca Pisac Peru ruins. Visiting on market day is your best bet for finding easy transportation up; the alternative is a steep two-hour walk from town. It´s most crowded on Sunday; the rest of the week there will be few other people.Archaeologists originally thought the Pisac Peru ruins were a fortress to defend against fierce Antis (jungle peoples), though there´s little evidence that battles were fought here. Now it seems that Pisac was a bit of everything: citadel, religious site, observatory, and residence, and may have served as a refuge in times of siege. The complex also has a temple to the sun and a astronomical observatory, from which priests calculated the growing season each year. Narrow trails wind tortuosly between and through solid rock. You may find yourself practically alone on the series of paths in the mountains that lead you among the ruins, through caves, and past the largest known Inca cemetery (the Inca buried their dead in tombs high on the cliffs). Just as spectacular as the site are the views from it.
Farther above are more Pisac Peru ruins and burial grounds, still in the process of being excavated.
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