97 km / 60 miles northwest of Cusco (2 hours and 30 minutes by car) The Incas built it as a fort that included a temple, agricultural terraces, and an urban area. There are two distinct sectors: Araqama Ayllu, the religious and worship zone, and Qosqo Ayllu, the residential area. Ollantaytambo was an important administrative center with probable military functions if one considers the walls and towers.
There are also traces of ancient roads and aqueducts. The town of Ollantaytambo is called a LivingIncaTown since the inhabitants maintain very old practices and customs. From Ollantaytambo, you can visit the village of Willoc, where the Quechua-speaking inhabitants distinguish themselves from the rest of the region by wearing red clothing that identifies them as members of a unique family. |
