Pikyliakt

• Address: 30 km al Oriente de Cusco, Peru
• Opening hours: 7.00 - 18.00
• Foundation date: approximately between 800 and 1100 years
• Discovered: 1927

Pikilijakta are ruins of an ancient city of pre-Inca civilization. The researchers established that the complex of structures was erected by the warrior people of the Huari between 800 and 1100 years. On an excursion to the archaeological site you will see hundreds of low buildings made of stone and clay, as well as reliable fences, sometimes reaching 9 meters in height.

By themselves, the buildings do not cause much interest, because even during operation they did not have a presentable appearance. Rough and sloppy way of construction and masonry "torn" stone is unlikely to cause admiration in modern man. However, if you have a desire to go deeper into the destiny of the country, find out what cultures took place in its history - go to Pikilihaktu. It is here that you will have the opportunity to touch the objects of "living history" and pamper your own curiosity.

Information for the Curious

The ruins of Pikilijakt were discovered in 1927. Small studies were conducted on the territory of the city, limited only to the search for everyday objects and fragments of houses. In the second half of the 20th century, historian and archaeologist Gordon McEwan decided to study the valley, finding this area very interesting to study. Thanks to the diligence of this scientist today, we can see the city collected literally by the grains, we can visit the museum, where even the skeletons of dinosaurs found in the territory of Pikilijakti are stored, go to ancient houses and see how people lived long before our birth.

The very name Pikillacta means "city of fleas" or "flea hole". Such a strange, not too respectful for the people of Uari name, was given because of the high walls protecting the city. People, in comparison with these fences, seemed small fleas. Knowing this, the name no longer seems so unfortunate and ugly, because there is logic in it.

Features of city architecture

The architecture of Pikilijakti is interesting with its clear geometric layout. Civilization of the Incas, inherited the city of Pikilihaktu, used in its buildings the same geometric pattern - everything had to be smooth and symmetrical. By the way, there is a suggestion that the Huari culture built Pikilijaktu on the ruins of another, even more ancient settlement.

The main building materials of the city were stone and clay. The Huari people were pretty clever, that's why in the houses the floor is made of plaster. Who would like to sleep on a cold stone or earth? The walls are also decorated with plaster. This material people of Huari cultures extracted from neighboring hills. Gypsum gives the whole city a white shade, every house is whitewashed.

The landscape opens picturesque, but you will not find any rivers or special vegetation here. Desert arid valley, which is saved by a couple of three lakes, and only. But this is only now, in our time. In ancient times, there were reservoirs, canals, and aqueducts - the remaining traces testify to them. In these parts, even agriculture was developed at a very decent level. Alas, all that we can see now are only fragments of the past, and they do not give us complete knowledge about the way of life of the peoples who once lived here. But if you find the history of the American continent interesting, you should visit the ancient city of Pikilijakta.

How to get there?

The ruins of Pikilijakta are located about 30 kilometers from Cusco , in a southeast direction, in the province of Kispichenka. You can get to this Peruvian archaeological monument by public transport , by regular bus. The terminal, where you will need to purchase a ticket, is located not far from Avenida de la Cultura. From the center to the terminal you can go as follows: after a circular traffic from the center go to the right through the square and the local military establishment. Right behind it you will find the object you need. By the way, the ticket price is about 5 salts.

While you are driving, remind the driver and conductor about your existence, periodically repeating the cherished "Pikyakta". You will be prompted where to go. The stop is 300 meters from the ancient city. By the way, if you want to go in conditions of increased comfort, you can rent a car .