Raqchi Archaeological Park

Raqchi Archaeological Site Travel Guide

Overview

Raqchi is an archaeological gem located in the Dominican Republic, specifically in the community of Raqchi within the San Pedro district of the Canchis province, in the Cusco region of Peru. This site is essential for those fascinated by history and culture, offering a remarkable insight into the Inca civilization. The highlight of Raqchi is the temple dedicated to the deity Wiracocha, which showcases stunning Inca architectural achievements and its historical importance.

Historical Background

Once the capital of the Kanchis nation, Raqchi features a complex of religious structures organized in a hierarchical manner. Built on volcanic lava, the site includes colcas, which served as royal storehouses. The temple of Wiracocha is a massive rectangular building measuring 92 meters in length and 25.5 meters in width, characterized by a central adobe wall that stands between 18 and 20 meters high, supported by an andesite stone base. This temple was constructed during the reign of Inca Wiracocha, later expanded by Pachacútec between 1439 and 1471, and finalized by Inca Túpac Yupanqui between 1471 and 1493.

Getting There

To visit Raqchi, start your journey from Cusco and take the paved Longitudinal Highway of the Southern Sierra, also known as Panamericana Sur. The drive takes around 2 hours and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, culminating at the Raqchi lookout. The entrance fee to Raqchi is 10 Peruvian soles, which can be purchased directly at the site.

Attractions

1. **Temple of Wiracocha**: The centerpiece of the site, this grand two-story structure is dedicated to the god Wiracocha, featuring a central adobe wall, andesite stone base, and flanked by 11 circular columns.
2. **Colcas**: These cylindrical food storage facilities were used to preserve crops such as maize, potatoes, chuño, and quinoa for the dry season.
3. **Enclosures**: A series of twenty-two circular houses designed for the inhabitants, complete with trapezoidal niches.
4. **Aqueducts and Underground Tombs**: These remnants of pre-Inca culture highlight the Incas’ remarkable engineering skills in constructing stone water channels.
5. **Inca Bath**: A beautifully crafted fountain that underscores the significance of water in Inca society.

Admission Details

The entrance fee for Raqchi is 15 soles per person, available for purchase on-site. The site operates daily from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Visiting Tips

1. **Optimal Visiting Time**: The ideal time to explore Raqchi is during the dry season (April to October), when sunny days are more frequent and rain is less likely.
2. **Site Preservation**: Respect the heritage of the site by avoiding contact with the lithic stones and refraining from climbing or leaning against the walls.
3. **Group Coordination**: If you lose your group, seek assistance from park rangers to help locate them.
4. **Food and Pets**: Refrain from bringing food or pets into the park to maintain the integrity of the cultural and archaeological environment.
5. **Cultural Engagement**: Consider hiring a tour guide for a more enriching experience. The site offers various cultural activities and traditional culinary experiences that will enhance your visit.

By adhering to these guidelines and delving into the historical significance of Raqchi, you are sure to have a fulfilling and enlightening experience at this ancient Inca site.