Explore, Learn, and Connect with South Valley History!
Let me take you on a delightful tour of the South Valley of Cusco, or as the locals call it, “Valle Sur.” It’s a place that feels like a secret passageway back in time, nestled just a stone’s throw southeast of bustling Cusco. This charming area is a treasure trove of history, culture, and eye-popping natural beauty, blending ancient legacies with a splash of Spanish flair.
Historical Highlights:
- Tipón: Imagine wandering through what might have been royal gardens, with terraces that cascade like waterfalls and ancient canals engineered to perfection. Tipón isn’t just beautiful, it’s a testament to the Inca’s genius in hydraulics and agriculture.
- Pikillaqta: Step back into a time before the Inca, where the Wari civilization thrived. Pikillaqta, or “Flea Town,” might not sound grand, but it’s a marvel of urban planning with over 700 structures, including towering temples and organized city layouts that hint at a highly sophisticated society.
Cultural Treasures:
- Andahuaylillas Church: Often dubbed the “Sistine Chapel of the Americas,” this 17th-century gem dazzles with its murals, gold leaf, and altars. It’s a place where indigenous art and Catholic traditions merge beautifully, capturing the cultural fusion of the colonial period.
Natural Escapes:
- Huacarpay Lagoon: A tranquil spot perfect for nature lovers. Here, you can watch birds that have traveled continents to rest in this Andean haven. It’s a place to enjoy peace and natural beauty, with a backdrop of majestic mountains.
Experience the Legacy of the Inca Empire
Our first stop of the South Valley tour was at a local information store where we met an engaging archaeologist. He captivated us with tales of how Machu Picchu was discovered by Hiram Bingham and even showed us some vintage photographs of the site before it was cleared. The photos, available in postcard size, were exactly what I had been hoping to find. Thrilled, I bought every photo they had!
Located about 24 kilometers south of Cusco, the ancient site of Tipón, Peru, stands as a remarkable showcase of Incan ingenuity and their deep respect for nature.
Originally, these terraces were developed for agricultural purposes, making the most of the valley’s unique microclimate to cultivate a variety of crops that were staples in the Incan diet. The real marvel of Tipón, however, lies in its sophisticated water management system. Even today, an elaborate network of channels and fountains crisscrosses the site, all fully operational and as effective as they were hundreds of years ago.
Explore, Learn, Be Amazed
After our visit to Tipón, where we marveled at the ancient terraces and intricate water systems, our group visited another store. This time, we explored the exquisite items made from 100% baby alpaca. The shop also offered a demonstration on weaving techniques and how they create the vivid array of fabric colors. I even had a chance to taste Chicha, a local beverage that was unlike anything I’ve tried before.
Our journey continued through the town of Oropesa, often hailed as the bread capital of Peru, where I couldn’t resist purchasing some Chuta bread, famous in the region for its unique taste and texture.
Explore the Echoes of South Valley
Witness Timeless Wonders in Sacred Sites
Past Preserved: Unearth the Mysteries
