What is the significance of Ollantaytambo?

What is the significance of Ollantaytambo?

Ollantaytambo was an important religious, agricultural and also military center. Due to its strategic location during the conquest it served as a defense post against the Spanish. In 1537 the Spanish conquistadors faced off with the last Incas who resisted the European invasion in Ollantaytambo.

Why was Ollantaytambo built?

History: The construction of Ollantaytambo began in the early 1400s, by order of Inca Pachacutec, who launched an expansion of his regional Cusco kingdom and thus commissioned the building of many control complexes; Ollantaytambo was one of them, intended to establish Inca rule over the valley.

What is the population of Ollantaytambo Peru?

10,165
Ollantaytambo District

What is Ollantaytambo Peru?

Ollantaytambo (Quechua: Ullantaytampu) is a town and an Inca archaeological site in southern Peru some 72 km (45 mi) by road northwest of the city of Cusco. During the Inca Empire, Ollantaytambo was the royal estate of Emperor Pachacuti, who conquered the region, and built the town and a ceremonial center.

Does Peru give you altitude sickness?

Mild altitude sickness should not interfere too much with your normal activity on your Peru trip. Symptoms are usually felt within 12 – 24 hours of arrival and tend to subside within 3 days. If you continue to feel unwell ask your hotel to call you a doctor as more severe reactions may require medical attention.

Is Ollantaytambo on the Inca Trail?

Ollantaytambo is located some 60 kilometers northwest of the city of Cusco. It is located at an altitude of 2,792 meters (9,160 feet) above sea level. Nowadays it is an important tourist attraction on account of its Inca buildings and as one of the most common starting points for the Inca Trail.

Where are the ruins of Ollantaytambo in Peru?

Ollantaytambo ruins— is one of the best preserved Inca archaeological sites and a charming town, nicknamed Ollanta by the locals; nestled in the heart of Peru’s spectacular Sacred Valley. Its main tourist attraction is the archaeological site (also called fortress) located next to the town, and it is also lower, than Cusco.

Why did the Incas build the Ollantaytambo fortress?

For me, Pinkuylluna was the most spectacular part of Ollantaytambo. How the Incas were able to build houses on such a steep ravine, is beyond me. The reason they did it, seems quite clear. The food was an essential part of any military campaign and thus needed special protection.

How much does it cost to go to Ollantaytambo?

Quick facts about Ollantaytambo. Opening hours: 7 am to 6 pm (all year) Entry price: 130 Soles (Boleto turistico for several Inca sites) Altitude: 2,792 m (9,160 ft) Distance to Cusco: 70 kilometers. Distance to Machu Picchu: 30 kilometers.

When was the fortress of the Incas built?

The ancient Inca fortress was built around the middle of the 15 th century and is the second most well-preserved ruin in Peru (third would be Pisac, click to read my guide) For me, t he ruins are the best alternative to Machu Picchu.