Pisac Ruins
Písac’s sprawling Inca ruins, known as Inca Písac, are perched on a plateau above the town, with a plunging gorge on either side. Consisting of a temple, baths, an altar, a ceremonial platform, and agricultural terracing, this well-maintained site once served as a religious, agricultural and military center.
Researchers believe that Písac was established to defend the southern entrance of the Sacred Valley, controlling a route that connected the Inca Empire to the rainforest. The path leading into the rainforest still remains.
Perhaps the most impressive feature of the entire site is the agricultural terracing, which sweeps around the south and east sides of the mountain in huge, graceful curves. At the top of the terracing is an Inca ceremonial altar with an intihuatana, a ritual stone and astronomical tool that’s name means ‘hitching post of the sun.’
Walking up to the ruins, visitors can admire the mud houses scattered along the path. This path will lead up the hillside past a series of ceremonial baths and then to the military area. Looking across the gorge from the back of the ruins, hundreds of holes can be seen dotting the cliff wall. These are Inca tombs that were raided by grave robbers, and unfortunately are now completely off-limits to tourists.
Where to stay in Pisac Ruins
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Pisac Ruins accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Hotel Wakapunku
Hotel Wakapunku is located just two blocks from Cusco’s main plaza. This boutique hotel is warm and inviting.
Sueños del Inka
Sueños del Inka puts you steps from some of the most important historic sites in Cusco, where you’ll see many monuments to the culture clash between the Spanish and the Inca.
Hotel Mabey Cusco
Hotel Mabey Cusco is located in Cusco, Peru. The hotel is a good budget option in Cusco.
Belmond Palacio Nazarenas Boutique Hotel
The Belmond Palacio Nazarenas is a boutique hotel in Cusco. The hotel is set in a former convent that has been beautifully restored into one of the city’s best hotels.
Inkaterra La Casona Cusco
Inkaterra La Casona Cusco is an exquisite hotel in central Cusco. Set within a 16th-century colonial mansion, Inkaterra La Casona is easily one of the best hotels in Cusco.
JW Marriott Hotel Cusco
A 5-star hotel in the heart of historical Cusco, the JW Marriott Hotel Cusco offers architecturally breathtaking accommodations very close to the main attractions of this important city.
Belmond Hotel Monasterio Cusco
The Belmond Hotel Monasterio is found in Cusco, Peru. This beautiful and historic hotel is centrally located in Cusco.
Hotel Novotel Cusco
Hotel Novotel is located in the historic center of Cusco. This hotel is contemporary and has an excellent breakfast buffet.
Casa Andina Cusco Premium Hotel
Casa Andina Cusco Private Collection is located in a beautiful 18th-century house in Cusco. The hotel has a lovely layout, comfortable rooms and a central location.
Palacio del Inka
From the luxuriant spa to its neo-Andean restaurant and every one of its 203 classy guest rooms, Palacio del Inca showcases extravagance. The hotel welcomes you from the heart of historic Cusco.
Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza
Tierra Viva Cusco Plaza is centrally located in Cusco, Peru. This hotel is cozy and set within a remodeled colonial house.
Taypikala Hotel Cusco
The Taypikala Hotel is located near the sun temple in Cusco, Peru. This hotel has a tranquil atmosphere and pleasant rooms.
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