Raqchi

Raqchi is dominated by one structure: the central wall of the Temple of Wiracocha, a spine of adobe standing about twelve metres high on a base of fine Inca masonry, running roughly ninety metres, once carrying a vast pitched roof supported on rows of columns whose stumps remain. It is the tallest surviving Inca roofed building and there is nothing else quite like it. Beside it stand ranks of qollqas, circular stone storehouses built to hold grain and other goods for the state - counts run from about 150 to over 200 - one of the best-preserved groups of Inca storehouses anywhere. There are residential enclosures, a spring and bath complex, and a perimeter wall enclosing a large area. The volcanic landscape around, with a lava field from the nearby Quimsachata volcano, is thought to have given the site its association with Wiracocha, the creator deity. It is a standard stop on the tourist route between Cusco and Puno.

The main sights

• The temple wall - twelve metres of adobe on Inca stone, ninety metres long.
• The column bases - the rows that carried the largest known Inca roof.
• The qollqas - some 150 to 200 circular stone storehouses in ranks.
• The lava field - the volcanic ground linked to the Wiracocha association.

When to go

April to October. One to two hours. It is a standard stop on the Cusco to Puno route buses, so mid-morning brings several coaches at once.

Good to know

Very exposed with no shade at 3,480 metres. Coach groups arrive together on the Puno route. The adobe is fragile and fenced in places. Handicraft selling at the entrance is persistent.

Nearby

Sicuani is south; Checacupe and its bridges are north on the same road.

Key facts