Raqchi
In the town of Raqchi on the road from Puno to Cuzco lies
a less-visited Incan temple, dedicated to their major deity
Wiracocha. We were shown around Raqchi by Rene Rodriguez Arque,
a local schoolteacher and archaeologist. Mr. Rodriguez has
written and published a simple pamphlet describing the complex
and its history. This temple is believed to have been a major
pilgrimage site for those traveling from the Colla areas to
the south up to Cusco.
 |
Raqchi Temple. This view
is down the passageway between sets of buildings to
the left and right, which functioned as residences or
work areas.
|
|
|
The water fountain -- highly distinctive feature of
virtually all Incan ruins.
|
 |
Remains of the center structure. A thatched roof came
down on either side of this structure, supported by
stone pillars now destroyed.
|
 |
School.Throughout the
world, kids are in school, and the Altiplano of Peru
is no exception. These girls warmed up to the camera
when I showed them how they could see their picture
with it in real-time.
|
 |
Phallic Cults. A minor
Incan temple focusing on phalli.
|
 |
Guinea Pigs, or Cuy.
At a house near Cuzco, where we stopped for a drink
of chicha or corn beer, we found these guinea
pigs playing on the floor, blissfully unaware of their
upcoming fate., which is to be roasted and eaten as
one of the characteristic cuisines of this region.
|
|
